San Diego, CA

Managing Thyroid Disorders in San Diego

Managing Thyroid Disorders in San Diego

Comprehensive, Natural Solutions for Thyroid Health

Thyroid disorders are increasingly common and can significantly impact your energy levels, metabolism, mood, and overall well-being. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces hormones that regulate body temperature, digestion, weight management, and brain function. When the thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism), it can lead to a variety of frustrating and often debilitating symptoms.

At the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine, we specialize in science-based, holistic solutions for thyroid disorder management in San Diego and the greater Southern California area. Led by Dr. Mark Stengler, a nationally recognized integrative medicine expert, we use comprehensive testing, targeted nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and natural therapies to restore thyroid balance and support optimal health.

Common Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, mood, and overall health. When thyroid function is disrupted, it can lead to a variety of symptoms that impact daily life. Understanding common thyroid disorders is the first step toward effective management and treatment.

Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), leading to a slowed metabolism and decreased energy levels.

Causes of Hypothyroidism:

Autoimmune disorders (e.g., Hashimoto’s thyroiditis)
Iodine deficiency
Chronic stress and adrenal dysfunction
Certain medications (e.g., lithium, radiation therapy)

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism:

✔️ Chronic fatigue and sluggishness
✔️ Unexplained weight gain and difficulty losing weight
✔️ Brain fog, poor memory, and trouble concentrating
✔️ Depression, mood swings, and low motivation
✔️ Dry skin, brittle hair, and hair thinning
✔️ Sensitivity to cold and slowed metabolism

Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones, causing the body’s metabolism to speed up excessively.

Causes of Hyperthyroidism:

Graves’ disease (autoimmune disorder)
Thyroid nodules that overstimulate hormone production
Excessive iodine intake

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism:

✔️ Increased heart rate or heart palpitations
✔️ Unintentional weight loss despite normal eating habits
✔️ Anxiety, nervousness, and irritability
✔️ Insomnia and difficulty sleeping
✔️ Increased sweating and heat intolerance
✔️ Muscle weakness and tremors

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (Autoimmune Hypothyroidism)

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to chronic inflammation and reduced hormone production. Over time, it results in hypothyroidism.

Symptoms of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis:

✔️ Extreme fatigue and low energy levels
✔️ Unexplained weight gain and sluggish metabolism
✔️ Brain fog, memory issues, and difficulty concentrating
✔️ Dry skin, thinning hair, and brittle nails
✔️ Joint pain, muscle weakness, and cold intolerance

Since Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune condition, treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, balancing the immune system, and supporting thyroid function naturally.

Graves’ Disease (Autoimmune Hyperthyroidism)

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system overstimulates the thyroid gland, causing excessive thyroid hormone production and hyperthyroidism.

Symptoms of Graves’ Disease:

✔️ Rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure
✔️ Unexplained weight loss despite a healthy appetite
✔️ Nervousness, anxiety, and mood swings
✔️ Bulging eyes (Graves’ ophthalmopathy)
✔️ Increased sweating and heat intolerance
✔️ Shakiness or hand tremors

Graves’ disease requires a comprehensive approach to manage symptoms and regulate immune system activity while supporting thyroid function.

Symptoms of Thyroid Imbalances

The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, mood, and overall well-being. When thyroid function is disrupted, it can lead to a variety of symptoms that affect daily life and long-term health. Recognizing these signs early can help you seek proper diagnosis and effective treatment.

Common Symptoms of Thyroid Imbalances

✔️ Fatigue and Low Energy

Feeling constantly tired and sluggish, even after a full night’s sleep.
Difficulty staying alert or experiencing afternoon crashes.

✔️ Unexplained Weight Gain or Weight Loss

Hypothyroidism slows metabolism, leading to weight gain despite diet and exercise.
Hyperthyroidism speeds up metabolism, causing rapid, unintended weight loss.

✔️ Depression, Anxiety, or Mood Swings

Low thyroid function can contribute to depression, irritability, and mood swings.
Overactive thyroid function may lead to anxiety, nervousness, and emotional instability.

✔️ Brain Fog and Difficulty Concentrating

Struggling with memory, focus, and mental clarity.
Feeling easily distracted, forgetful, or mentally sluggish.

✔️ Sensitivity to Cold or Heat

Cold intolerance (common in hypothyroidism) can make hands and feet freezing, even in warm temperatures.
Heat intolerance (linked to hyperthyroidism) can cause excessive sweating and discomfort in warm conditions.

✔️ Hair Thinning or Brittle Nails

Slow-growing, thinning hair or brittle, peeling nails may signal a thyroid imbalance.
Dry, flaky skin and hair loss may also occur.

Integrative Approach to Managing Thyroid Disorders in San Diego

At the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine, we take a holistic, science-based approach to diagnosing and managing thyroid disorders. Unlike conventional treatments that focus solely on medication, we address root causes, such as nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, stress, and hormonal imbalances, to restore optimal thyroid function naturally.

Comprehensive Thyroid Testing

Accurate diagnosis is key to developing an effective treatment plan. Many conventional doctors only test TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), which does not provide a full picture of thyroid function. We go beyond standard testing to include:

✔️ TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) – Evaluates thyroid function and responsiveness.
✔️ Free T3 & Free T4 – Measures active thyroid hormone levels in the body.
✔️ Reverse T3 (rT3) – Identifies issues with thyroid hormone conversion.
✔️ Thyroid Antibodies (TPO & TG Antibodies) – Helps diagnose autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease.

Natural and Functional Medicine Approaches to Thyroid Health

Instead of simply prescribing thyroid medication, our functional medicine approach focuses on:

✔️ Identifying Root Causes – Addressing nutrient deficiencies, gut imbalances, and adrenal dysfunction.
✔️ Supporting Hormone Conversion – Enhancing the body’s ability to convert T4 (inactive thyroid hormone) into T3 (active thyroid hormone) for better metabolism.
✔️ Reducing Inflammation – Managing autoimmune thyroid disorders through immune system support and lifestyle changes.

Nutritional Therapy for Thyroid Support

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in thyroid function. We create customized dietary plans that include:

✔️ Iodine & Selenium-Rich Foods – Supports thyroid hormone production (seaweed, fish, eggs, Brazil nuts).
✔️ Anti-Inflammatory Diet – Helps regulate immune system function, especially for Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease (leafy greens, turmeric, berries, and omega-3-rich foods).
✔️ Gluten & Processed Food Elimination – Many thyroid patients benefit from a gluten-free, whole-foods-based diet to reduce inflammation.
✔️ Blood Sugar Stabilization – Supports thyroid and adrenal function by balancing blood sugar levels.

Personalized Supplement Recommendations

We tailor nutritional supplementation to each patient’s specific needs, including:

🌿 Iodine & Selenium – Essential for thyroid hormone production and conversion.
🌿 Adaptogenic Herbs (Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Holy Basil) – Helps balance stress hormones and reduce adrenal fatigue.
🌿 Omega-3 Fatty Acids & Vitamin D – Reduces inflammation and supports immune function.
🌿 Probiotics & Gut Health Support – Since gut health is linked to thyroid function, we optimize digestion and nutrient absorption.

Lifestyle Modifications for Optimal Thyroid Health

Your daily habits play a critical role in thyroid function and hormone balance. That’s why we include lifestyle coaching in our thyroid treatment plans, emphasizing:

🧘‍♀️ Stress Management – Chronic stress affects the thyroid-adrenal connection, so we incorporate relaxation techniques, prayer, and natural therapies.
🏋️‍♂️ Exercise & Movement – Moderate, low-impact exercise supports metabolism, energy levels, and mental clarity.
😴 Sleep Optimization – Poor sleep disrupts hormonal balance, so we help patients develop healthy sleep habits for better thyroid function.

Expert Thyroid Disorder Management in San Diego

If you’re experiencing fatigue, weight changes, brain fog, or other symptoms of thyroid imbalance, the Stengler Center for Integrative Medicine is here to help. Our comprehensive, natural approach to thyroid disorder management focuses on identifying root causes and restoring balance through personalized, science-based treatments.