Dr. Mark Stengler, a renowned physician, specializes in treating thyroid disorders in San Marcos, CA. With the growing number of patients seeking thyroid-related care, he believes that thyroid disorders have reached epidemic proportions in the country. This article provides valuable information on low thyroid activity (hypothyroidism), its symptoms, common causes, accurate diagnosis, hormone replacement options, and nutritional support.
Thyroid disorders have witnessed a significant increase, attributed to factors such as environmental toxins, pharmaceutical medication side effects, and stress. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, plays a vital role in regulating the body's metabolism.
Hypothyroidism, characterized by low thyroid activity, is the most prevalent thyroid disorder. While approximately 10 million Americans are diagnosed with hypothyroidism, Dr. Stengler estimates that the actual number could be as high as 30 million, including many undiagnosed cases. Symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, depression, dry skin, hair loss, and cold hands and feet can often be mistaken for the effects of a busy lifestyle.
The leading cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and decreased hormone production. Women are more susceptible to low thyroid activity, with a prevalence 5 to 10 times higher than in men. Genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalances, food allergies (e.g., gluten intolerance), and stress are other contributing factors. In rare cases, pituitary gland failure or a tumor may cause the condition.
Many doctors, both traditional and holistic, often rely solely on the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test, providing a general indication of thyroid function but overlooking the complexities of thyroid activity. Dr. Stengler emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive thyroid test panel, including assessments of free T3, free T4, and thyroid antibodies, which provides a more accurate diagnosis.
While some doctors consider low-normal levels of free T3 and free T4 within the "normal" range, Dr. Stengler believes that this standard is too low. Optimizing patient well-being requires aiming for mid-range levels of free T3 (320 pg/dL or higher) and free T4 (1.2 ng/dL or higher). Interpretation of test results is crucial, as individuals with normal TSH and T4 levels but low or low-normal T3 levels may face challenges in converting T4 to T3, indicating the need for supplemental T3 or support for conversion.
Synthetic T4 hormones like Synthroid, Levoxyl, and Levothroid have been traditionally prescribed by most doctors. However, Dr. Stengler's experience shows that synthetic T4 alone may not be sufficient, especially for individuals with poor T4 to T3 conversion. Instead, he recommends natural, bioidentical hormone replacement options such as Armour Thyroid, Nature-Thyroid, Westhroid, or compounded bioidentical T4 and T3.
Nutrients play a crucial role in supporting thyroid function. Dr. Stengler suggests specific supplements for patients with low thyroid activity, including L-tyrosine (500 mg before breakfast), a multivitamin containing selenium, zinc, and B vitamins, and iodine (at least 150 mcg daily, unless contraindicated for Hashimoto's thyroiditis patients).
For more information about Dr. Stengler's practice and his clinic in San Marcos, California, please visit MarkStengler.com or call (760) 274-2377.
By optimizing thyroid treatment and addressing the underlying causes, individuals can regain thyroid balance, improve their well-being, and receive expert care from Dr. Mark Stengler in San Marcos, CA.
