3 Ways Functional Medicine Can Help Thyroid Conditions

If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from a thyroid condition, functional medicine may be able to help. Functional medicine is a holistic approach to medicine that focuses on identifying and treating the root cause of your illness, rather than just treating the symptoms. There are three ways functional medicine can help improve thyroid conditions: by restoring balance in the body, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and by helping to resolve underlying emotional issues.

How does Your Thyroid work?

The thyroid gland is the body’s power generator. It sends energy to every cell in your system through hormones it produces, which control how fast you burn calories and help with metabolism regulation- all while managing overall health! This process begins when information about necessary nutrients enters our brain viac certain nerves (the ” Watkins vines.”); then those signals are sent out from here along regulatory fibers called “ neurofibrils .

When the hypothalamus detects that you are not getting enough food or water, it sends out Thyroid Releasing Hormone (TRH) to your pituitary gland. The TRH tells the thyroid how much energy levels need improvement by telling them about low blood sugar and other critical conditions in order for proper hormone production which can lead directly to producing more thyroxine hormones using an amino acid called tyrosine with just one iodine atom attached at a time depending upon what type of medication they will be taking as well if any.

There are three main types of functional thyroid medication:

In order to find the right medication, you should work with your doctor and keep track of lab results. But here are the common three main types of functional thyroid medication.

Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy

Thyroid hormone replacement therapy is the use of manmade thyroid hormones to raise abnormally low levels in an individual’s body. The most commonly prescribed type, pure synthetic thyroxine (T4) can be taken as pills or drops; it often helps treat an underactive thyroid.

TSH suppression therapy is the use of thyroid hormone medication to lower excessively high levels of TSH in an individual’s body. This can often help manage symptoms related to Grave’s disease, such as goiters, bulging eyes, and anxiety. 

Radioactive Iodine

Radioactive iodine therapy can help people live longer if they have papillary or follicular thyroid cancer (differentiated), which has spread to the neck and other parts of their bodies. But benefits are less clear for individuals with small cancers that do not seem like they’ve gotten far into surrounding tissue – these types often come out completely via surgery! You should discuss risks vs rewards before deciding whether radio nuclide treatment might be right for you; there isn’t enough research yet on its use in this situation though so until further studies are done, surgery is still the best option for most people.

If you have Graves’ disease or a toxic nodular goiter (the two main types of hyperthyroidism), functional medicine can help by addressing the underlying causes and not just the symptoms. This holistic approach uses dietary changes, supplements, and stress reduction techniques to promote balance in the body and alleviate symptoms. While medications can be helpful in some cases, they don’t always address the root cause of the problem and can come with a host of side effects. functional medicine provides a more comprehensive way to improve thyroid function and overall health.

Functional Supplements

Functional supplements have new or added ingredients that improve health. They’re categorized as food in some countries, whereas they can be drugs and natural products too! The term “functional foods” refers to these kinds of supplements with enhanced functions that result from improved nutrition qualifications like increased energy levels for example. Functional foods are designed to target a specific area of health, and they’re often used as part of a preventative approach to wellness.

When it comes to thyroid health, functional supplements can help in three big ways:

  • First, they can help improve your digestion which is essential since so many people with thyroid conditions have digestive issues. Digestion is key to the absorption of nutrients, so functional supplements that aid in digestion can be game-changers.
  • Second, functional supplements can provide the nutrients you need for healthy thyroid function. This includes things like iodine, selenium, zinc, and omega-three fatty acids. These nutrients are essential for the production of thyroid hormones and for keeping everything in balance.
  • Third,  functional supplements can help to address the underlying causes of thyroid conditions. This could be things like stress, inflammation, or gut imbalances. By addressing these underlying causes, you can often get relief from symptoms and start to feel better overall. If you’re struggling with a thyroid condition, functional medicine may be able to help.

Functional medicine can help improve thyroid conditions by restoring balance in the body, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and resolving underlying emotional issues. If you’re looking for a functional medicine doctor to help you with your thyroid condition, call us today! Our team of experts are here to help you get back on track to feeling your best.

Do You Need a Functional Medical Clinic You Can Trust?

As you know Functional Medicine asks how and why illness occurs and restores health by addressing the root causes of disease for each individual. Our goal for all of our patients at Hope for Healing is to optimize whole health, wellness, immunity, and longevity and find and fix the root problems permanently. All of our licensed medical providers have been trained by the Institute for Functional Medicine (ifm.org) and work collaboratively as part of the provider team under the leadership and direction of Paula Kruppstadt MD DABP FAAP IFMCP. We are trained to listen to our patients and take the time to do an appropriate root-cause analysis to find and implement permanent solutions together. If this sounds like we’d be the right fit for you, contact us today at (281) 725-6767!

Disclaimer

The materials available on this website are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not to provide health advice. You should contact your physician to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any content included in this site without seeking medical, legal or other professional advice. The information presented on this website may not reflect the most current medical developments. No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained on this website and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law.

Our Beginner’s Guide to Thyroid Conditions

If you have been feeling off for a while, it is important to get checked for thyroid conditions. Thyroid conditions are more common than people think and can cause a wide variety of symptoms. In this beginner’s guide, we will discuss the most common thyroid conditions, their symptoms, and how to best treat them.

Thyroid Conditions

There are many different types of thyroid conditions, but the most common is Hashimoto’s disease and Graves’ disease.

  • Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to become inflamed and eventually to stop functioning properly. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, depression, and hair loss.
  • Graves’ disease is another autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid gland, but in this case, the body produces too much thyroid hormone instead of attacking it. This can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, weight loss, and sweating.
  • Thyroid cancer is relatively rare, but it can occur in any of the three main types of thyroid cells. The most common type is papillary thyroid cancer, which accounts for around 80% of all cases. Follicular thyroid cancer makes up around 15% of cases, and medullary thyroid cancer is the rarest at just under five percent.
  • Hypothyroidism is the term used when the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, depression, and hair loss.

Treatment

The goal of the treatment is to find out what works best for each patient, and it may include medication or surgery. The doctor will likely need time in order to get an idea of how well this helped you before deciding whether anything else should be done at all!

Thyroid surgery (thyroidectomy)

The thyroid gland is a small organ in the neck that produces certain hormones necessary for metabolism. The surgeon will remove all or part of this important structure to treat cancerous cells,  an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), or other conditions. The most common type of thyroid cancer is called papillary carcinoma, and it represents around 80% of all cases.

Your doctor will likely recommend surgery if you have:

  • A goiter that is causing difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Thyroid cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic disease)
  • A large benign tumor (adenoma) that is causing symptoms such as neck pain or pressure on the trachea (windpipe)

Antithyroid medications

Drugs are often the first resort for people with hyperthyroidism. They can be used to slow down the production of thyroid hormone, which in turn relieves symptoms and stabilizes metabolism. The most common drugs used to treat hyperthyroidism are called beta blockers. These work by blocking the effects of thyroid hormone on your body, which can help to reduce symptoms such as anxiety, tremors, and rapid heartbeat. 

Other common medications used to treat hyperthyroidism include propylthiouracil (PTU) and methimazole (Tapazole). PTU works by interfering with the production of thyroid hormone, while methimazole blocks the action of thyroid hormone once it’s been produced.

Radioactive iodine

Iodine is a trace element that can be used with radioactivity in low doses to test one’s thyroid gland. Large amounts of this mineral, however, will destroy cancerous cells because it has an extremely powerful anti-tumor effect!

External radiation

External radiation therapy is another form of cancer treatment that uses high-energy x-rays or particles to kill cancer cells. This type of therapy is usually given as part of curative intent, meaning it’s given with the goal of curing cancer. External radiation therapy can be used to treat many different types of cancer, including thyroid cancer.

External radiation therapy for thyroid cancer is typically given in five daily treatments over a period of five to seven weeks. The length of treatment depends on the type and stage of your cancer, as well as your overall health. During external radiation therapy, you’ll be treated by a team of specialists who will work together to ensure you receive the best possible care.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a thyroid condition involves several key steps. It is important for your health care team to conduct research on the symptoms you are experiencing so they can identify what type or region in order to make an accurate conclusion about it and give appropriate treatment accordingly; this includes blood tests, imaging studies (such as x-rays), endoscopy procedures with instruments that allow doctors see inside organs up close, and biopsies of abnormal areas.

Your health care team will also ask about your family history, as some thyroid conditions are hereditary. Be sure to give them a complete picture of your medical background so they can make the best possible diagnosis.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms we’ve listed, please don’t hesitate to call us. We can help diagnose and treat your thyroid condition so you can feel better fast. With early diagnosis and treatment, many people with thyroid conditions are able to manage their symptoms and live healthy lives. Don’t suffer in silence – call us today!

Do You Need a Functional Medical Clinic You Can Trust?

As you know Functional Medicine asks how and why illness occurs and restores health by addressing the root causes of disease for each individual. Our goal for all of our patients at Hope for Healing is to optimize whole health, wellness, immunity, and longevity and find and fix the root problems permanently. All of our licensed medical providers have been trained by the Institute for Functional Medicine (ifm.org) and work collaboratively as part of the provider team under the leadership and direction of Paula Kruppstadt MD DABP FAAP IFMCP. We are trained to listen to our patients and take the time to do an appropriate root-cause analysis to find and implement permanent solutions together. If this sounds like we’d be the right fit for you, contact us today at (281) 725-6767!

Disclaimer

The materials available on this website are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not to provide health advice. You should contact your physician to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any content included in this site without seeking medical, legal or other professional advice. The information presented on this website may not reflect the most current medical developments. No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained on this website and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law.

10 Fast Facts About Hyperthyroidism in 2023

Did you know that hyperthyroidism is one of the most common endocrine disorders in the world? In this blog post, we will discuss 10 fast facts about hyperthyroidism in 2023. Keep reading to learn more!

1. Hyperthyroidism is a serious medical condition

The thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones that regulate body functions. It produces too much when hyperthyroidism occurs, which speeds up many of your system’s processes including heart rate and metabolism. The condition affects about 1% population in America alone, and women are five to eight times more likely than men to develop it.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism can be difficult to notice because they mimic other conditions and illnesses. These symptoms include anxiety, nervousness, irritability, weight loss, increased appetite, sweating.

2. Your thyroid gland makes two hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine

Your thyroid gland makes two hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine. T3 is made from your more active hormone – let’s call it “thyroidal doodle.” It directly affects tissues in different parts of the body including skin dryness or moods; it also impacts metabolism which controls how fast you burn calories when at rest through various processes like turning food into energy that can be used for movement during exercise as well as healing wounds by providing nutrients needed not just now but later down life path regardless if they’re physical injuries sustained while playing sports or psychological ones from traumas.

3. Hyperthyroidism is a condition where your body produces too much thyroid hormone

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where your body produces too much thyroid hormone. This can be caused by an adenoma (non-cancerous) in the pituitary gland, which secretes too much TSH into circulation and triggers hyperthyroid symptoms like feeling constantly tired or having difficulty concentrating.

In rare cases, this serious medical issue goes unnoticed due to its subtlety. However, most people with advanced tumors have other signs before they become urgently seek treatment such as weight loss without deliberate intention, bulging eyes, or changes in their menstrual cycles.

4. People with Graves’ disease have an immune system that makes a TSI

Graves’ disease is an auto-immune condition that causes the immune system to produce thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI). The TSI mimics the action of Thyroid Hormone or thyroxine, which stimulates too much production by our body’s protein in order for us to have a healthy amount.

5. Thyroid nodules are small lumps in your thyroid gland

Thyroid nodules are small lumps in your thyroid gland. They’re common and usually noncancerous, though some may become overactive to produce too much hormone by mistake!

6. Thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid that causes the stored hormones to leak out

Thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid that causes the stored hormones to leak out and raise your blood levels. It starts off as hyperthyroidism, where you have a lot more than the normal amount for 1 or 2 months until it progresses into hypothyroidism when there’s not enough available in our bodies – this can happen at any time!

7. Goiter, which is an enlarged thyroid that can cause the neck to look swollen and interfere with normal breathing

The swelling in the neck can interfere with normal breathing and swallowing. The goiter, is an enlarged thyroid that may cause you to have a swollen appearance of your face or even make it difficult for food to chew and then swallow. 

8. Women are at a higher risk for developing hyperthyroidism than men

Women are at a higher risk for developing hyperthyroidism than men, and certain factors can increase the chances. These include: 

  • Having more family members with thyroid disease
  • Eating large amounts of additional protein foods while not balancing calories properly
  • Smoking cigarettes
  • Exposure to high levels of radiation

9. Hyperthyroidism is a disorder that occurs more often in older adults

Hyperthyroidism is a disorder that often affects older adults. It’s caused by thyroids, which are more common in people over 60 years of age because they don’t display the typical symptoms as other thyroid disorders do. For this reason, it can be misdiagnosed as depression or dementia.

10. Hyperthyroidism is a condition that occurs during pregnancy and can have serious consequences for the mother as well baby

Graves’ disease, usually caused by an overactive thyroid gland (goiter), leads to one in every 500 pregnancies – affecting both mommy-to be’s health along with her prenatal outcomes such quires miscarriage risk or delivery date which could lead up being preterm babies who are more likely than others premature birth due low birth weight among other things.

That’s all for now on hyperthyroidism. As you can see, it’s a serious condition that requires treatment. If you think you may be experiencing some of the symptoms, please give us a call today. We would be happy to answer any questions and help you get started on the road to feeling better. Thanks for reading!

Do You Need a Functional Medical Clinic You Can Trust?

As you know Functional Medicine asks how and why illness occurs and restores health by addressing the root causes of disease for each individual. Our goal for all of our patients at Hope for Healing is to optimize whole health, wellness, immunity, and longevity and find and fix the root problems permanently. All of our licensed medical providers have been trained by the Institute for Functional Medicine (ifm.org) and work collaboratively as part of the provider team under the leadership and direction of Paula Kruppstadt MD DABP FAAP IFMCP. We are trained to listen to our patients and take the time to do an appropriate root-cause analysis to find and implement permanent solutions together. If this sounds like we’d be the right fit for you, contact us today at (281) 725-6767!

Disclaimer

The materials available on this website are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not to provide health advice. You should contact your physician to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any content included in this site without seeking medical, legal or other professional advice. The information presented on this website may not reflect the most current medical developments. No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained on this website and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law.

How Much Do You Really Know About Thyroid Conditions?

Did you know that the thyroid is one of the most important glands in the body? It plays a role in many different functions, including metabolism and energy levels. When something goes wrong with the thyroid, it can cause a variety of symptoms. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common thyroid conditions. We will also talk about how to recognize the symptoms and get treatment if necessary.

The Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland is a small organ that’s located in the front of your neck, wrapped around the windpipe (trachea). It’s shaped like a butterfly with two wide wings which extend out from either side and a smaller middle section where they form into points before connecting together at their tips. This area supports nearly all healthy functions for example metabolism regulation; energy production & release; protein synthesis among many others!

What does it do?

Your thyroid controls how much energy is used throughout your entire body by coordinating the metabolism of food with a few specific hormones – T4 (thyroxine) and T3. These two important chemicals tell cells precisely when they should use their own raw materials for fuel, thus regulating everything from heart rate to brain function.

There are different thyroid conditions that can affect the way your thyroid works. These conditions can be either benign or malignant, and they can occur in both children and adults.

The most common Thyroid Conditions are:

  • Thyroiditis
  • Thyroid Nodules
  • Thyroid Cancer 
  • Graves’ Disease

Thyroiditis

Thyroiditis is a group of disorders that cause inflammation of your thyroid gland. The hormone made by this small organ controls many aspects of how your body functions, including metabolism and energy production.  Thyroiditis can be either temporary or permanent, and it can cause your thyroid gland to become overactive or underactive.

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is the most common type of thyroiditis, and it’s also the leading cause of hypothyroidism in the United States. It occurs when your immune system attacks your thyroid gland, causing inflammation. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is a chronic condition, which means it can last for years and may lead to an enlarged thyroid (goiter) as well as other complications.

Thyroid Nodules

Thyroid nodules are lumps that form within your thyroid gland and are usually benign. However, they can occasionally be cancerous. Thyroid nodules are relatively common, and women are more likely to develop them than men. If you have a thyroid nodule, you may not experience any symptoms. However, some people with thyroid nodules may experience neck pain or difficulty swallowing. If you have any concerns about your thyroid nodule, please consult with a doctor.

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is the growth of cells that starts in the thyroid. The affected person’s voice may change, and they might have trouble swallowing or speaking clearly because there was too much pressure on their vocal cords from all those extra hormones trying to get out through an enlarged glandular structure called “the tonsils.”

Graves’ Disease

Graves’ disease is the most common form of hyperthyroidism and it occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland. This causes the gland to produce too much Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), which leads to an overproduction of Thyroid hormone. The resulting high levels of Thyroid hormone can cause a number of symptoms, including weight loss, anxiety, irritability, tremors, heat intolerance, sweating, and changes in heart rate. Graves’ disease can also cause bulging eyes (known as exophthalmos), which can lead to vision problems.

If you think you may have Graves’ disease, it’s important to see your doctor for a diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential to managing the condition and preventing complications.

Treatment

Thyroid conditions can be benign or malignant, and they can occur in both children and adults. If you think you may have a thyroid condition, it’s important to see your doctor for a diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to managing the condition and preventing complications. There are a variety of treatment options available for thyroid conditions, including medication, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgery. The best course of treatment will depend on a number of factors, including the type and severity of your condition.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of a thyroid condition, it’s important to see your doctor and get diagnosed. Once you know what type of thyroid condition you have, there are a variety of treatment options available including medication, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgery. Treatment for thyroid conditions can vary depending on the individual case, so it’s important to work with your doctor to find the best option for you. Don’t wait – call us today to schedule an appointment!

Do You Need a Functional Medical Clinic You Can Trust?

As you know Functional Medicine asks how and why illness occurs and restores health by addressing the root causes of disease for each individual. Our goal for all of our patients at Hope for Healing is to optimize whole health, wellness, immunity, and longevity and find and fix the root problems permanently. All of our licensed medical providers have been trained by the Institute for Functional Medicine (ifm.org) and work collaboratively as part of the provider team under the leadership and direction of Paula Kruppstadt MD DABP FAAP IFMCP. We are trained to listen to our patients and take the time to do an appropriate root-cause analysis to find and implement permanent solutions together. If this sounds like we’d be the right fit for you, contact us today at (281) 725-6767!

Disclaimer

The materials available on this website are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not to provide health advice. You should contact your physician to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any content included in this site without seeking medical, legal or other professional advice. The information presented on this website may not reflect the most current medical developments. No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained on this website and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law.

The 6 Types of Thyroid Conditions You Need to Know

There are 6 types of thyroid conditions that you need to be aware of. Each one can cause different symptoms and needs to be treated differently. If you think that you might have a thyroid condition, it is important to get diagnosed as soon as possible. In this blog post, we will discuss the 6 most common thyroid conditions and what you can do to treat them.

1. Graves’ Disease

This is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack the thyroid gland. This can lead to the overproduction of thyroid hormone, which can cause Graves’ ophthalmopathy (eye problems) and goiters.

Your thyroid gland makes hormones that help regulate your metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. When you have Graves’ disease, your immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to make more thyroid hormone than your body needs. This can lead to a number of symptoms, including:

  • Weight loss
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Tremors
  • Sweating
  • Increased appetite
  • Heat intolerance
  • Fatigue
  • Insomnia
  • Muscle weakness

2. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is the most common type of thyroiditis and it is an autoimmune disease. This means that your body’s immune system attacks your thyroid gland. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis can cause hypothyroidism, which is when your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones.

The symptoms of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis can include fatigue, weight gain, constipation, depression, and dry skin. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor to get tested for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis.

3. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is an abnormal function of the thyroid gland that produces too much hormone. In other words, if you have high levels then it means you are overactive and make more than what’s needed which causes hyper THYROIDITIS!

The hormones produced by this organ play many important roles in our health so when there are imbalances like higher T3/T4 ratios these can affect nearly every aspect of how we function normally from feeling energized all day long or having difficulty sleeping at night due to anxiety symptoms – even frying some parts vital for survival such as muscles and the heart.

The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease, which is an autoimmune disorder where your body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid gland and cause it to overproduce hormones. Other causes of hyperthyroidism include:

  • Toxic adenomas: These are benign tumors that secrete thyroxine.
  • Subacute thyroiditis: This is a viral infection of the thyroid gland that can cause temporary thyrotoxicosis (high levels of thyroid hormone).
  • Excessive iodine intake: Iodine is necessary for the production of thyroid hormone, so too much iodine can lead to hyperthyroidism.
  • Pituitary adenomas: These are benign tumors of the pituitary gland that secrete thyrotropin, which stimulates the thyroid gland to overproduce hormones.

4. Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition that affects the thyroid gland and causes it to produce less than normal amounts of hormones. Since this important organ controls metabolism, people with hypothyroid often experience symptoms such as slow weight gain or loss; dry skin/managing hair; difficulty breathing when sleeping due in part to inadequate chest expansion on flat-topped pillows.

There are many different causes of hypothyroidism, including:

  • Hashimoto’s disease: This is an autoimmune disorder where the body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid gland and cause it to produce less hormone.
  • Pituitary tumors: These can cause the pituitary gland to secrete less thyrotropin, which stimulates the thyroid gland to produce hormones.
  • Iodine deficiency: Iodine is necessary for the production of thyroid hormone, so a lack of iodine can lead to hypothyroidism.
  • Certain medications: Some drugs can interfere with the production or action of thyroid hormone.

 

There are many different treatments for hypothyroidism, including:

  • Thyroid hormone replacement therapy: This is the most common treatment for hypothyroidism. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy involves taking synthetic thyroid hormone (levothyroxine) to replace the missing hormones.
  • Iodine supplementation: If iodine deficiency is the cause of your hypothyroidism, then iodine supplementation can be an effective treatment.
  • Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to remove a pituitary tumor or Graves’ disease.
  • Radioactive iodine therapy: Radioactive iodine therapy can be used to destroy part of the thyroid gland and reduce hormone production.

5. Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is the most common type of thyroid cancer. It typically affects adults over the age of 50 and is more common in women than men. There are four main types of thyroid cancer: papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic.

  • Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common type of thyroid cancer, accounting for about 80% of all cases. It is usually slow-growing cancer that can be treated successfully with surgery and/or radioactive iodine therapy.
  • Follicular thyroid cancer accounts for about 15% of all cases. This type of thyroid cancer tends to grow and spread more slowly than papillary thyroid cancer. Follicular thyroid cancers can also be treated successfully with surgery and/or radioactive iodine therapy.
  • Medullary thyroid cancer is a rare type of thyroid cancer that accounts for about three to five percent of all cases. This type of thyroid cancer tends to grow and spread more quickly than other types of thyroid cancer. Medullary thyroid cancers can be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy.
  • Anaplastic thyroid cancer is the most aggressive and rarest type of thyroid cancer, accounting for less than one percent of all cases. This type of thyroid cancer grows very quickly and is difficult to treat. Anaplastic thyroid cancers can be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy.

6. Thyroid Nodules

Nodules are abnormal overgrowths of thyroid tissue that may be benign, though in some cases they can turn cancerous. Some people have one nodule while others might carry several at once! The condition is most common among women but men also suffer from it to an extent – especially as we age.

Now that you know the six types of thyroid conditions, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and get checked out if you think something might be wrong. The good news is that most cases of thyroid disease are treatable, but they often go undiagnosed because people don’t realize how common they are. If you have any concerns about your health or think you might be experiencing some of the symptoms we talked about in this post, please call us today for a consultation. We would be happy to help!

Do You Need a Functional Medical Clinic You Can Trust?

As you know Functional Medicine asks how and why illness occurs and restores health by addressing the root causes of disease for each individual. Our goal for all of our patients at Hope for Healing is to optimize whole health, wellness, immunity, and longevity and find and fix the root problems permanently. All of our licensed medical providers have been trained by the Institute for Functional Medicine (ifm.org) and work collaboratively as part of the provider team under the leadership and direction of Paula Kruppstadt MD DABP FAAP IFMCP. We are trained to listen to our patients and take the time to do an appropriate root-cause analysis to find and implement permanent solutions together. If this sounds like we’d be the right fit for you, contact us today at (281) 725-6767!

Disclaimer

The materials available on this website are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not to provide health advice. You should contact your physician to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any content included in this site without seeking medical, legal or other professional advice. The information presented on this website may not reflect the most current medical developments. No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained on this website and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law.

5 Things You Need to Know About Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland. It is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States. About 1 in every 100 people has Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. If you are one of those people, it’s important to know what to expect and how to manage your condition. In this blog post, we will discuss 5 things that you need to know about Hashimoto’s thyroiditis!

1. Hashimoto’s disease is a disorder that affects the immune system.

Hashimoto’s disease is an illness that affects your thyroid gland and produces symptoms of wide-ranging natures. It can have different impacts on people, depending upon their immune system response as well as other factors including age or gender identity/sexual orientation. If you’re experiencing these signs & symptoms then please see a doctor immediately because there may be others contributing to the problem besides just Hashimoto’s!

2. A patient with Hashimoto’s disease may experience memory loss, depression, irritability, etc.

Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks thyroid cells as if they were bacteria or viruses. The result of this attack on healthy tissue leads to cell death and damage which can cause any number of symptoms in different areas including mental functioning.

Hashimoto’s patients may experience memory loss, depression, irritability, etc., all related directly to their own body going through major renovations within itself due t the destruction occurring at various levels.

The most common symptom of Hashimoto’s disease is fatigue. This can be attributed to the breakdown of cells within the thyroid gland which in turn decreases the production of critical hormones. As these hormones are responsible for energy metabolism, a decrease leads to feelings of exhaustion. Other symptoms may include:

  • Muscular aches and pains
  • Joint pain
  • Difficulty concentrating

3. Hashimoto’s disease is an illness that may have been linked to your genes or the environment.

Hashimoto’s disease has been linked to several different factors, including genetics and environmental triggers. One popular theory suggests that it may be related to the body producing too much or not enough of a particular hormone called thyroxine (T4). There are also studies that suggest an interaction between your genes and what you eat – some people with Hashimoto’s have had their symptoms improve after making certain dietary tweaks like cutting out gluten from their diet completely!

4. It is believed that people who are constantly exposed to high levels of environmental radiation may be more likely than others, eventually develop Hashimoto’s disease.

When you’re exposed to excess levels of environmental radiation, such as that found in a hospital or around nuclear power plants, for example, your body is more likely prone to Hashimoto’s disease.

5. Having another autoimmune disease means you’re at higher risk for Hashimoto’s.

Having another autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes or lupus can increase your risk for Hashimoto’s.

Diagnosis:

If you think you may have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, it’s important to see your doctor for a diagnosis. They will likely order a blood test to check your levels of thyroid hormone and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). An ultrasound may also be ordered to get a better look at your thyroid gland.

Treatment:

There is no cure for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, but there are treatments that can help manage the condition. The most common treatment is levothyroxine, which is a synthetic form of thyroxine (the main hormone produced by the thyroid). Levothyroxine replaces the thyroxine that your body is not able to produce on its own.

Hashimoto’s disease is a disorder that affects the immune system. If you have been experiencing memory loss, depression, irritability, and other symptoms, you may want to consider getting tested for Hashimoto’s disease. While there is no cure for this illness, it is possible to manage the symptoms with the help of a doctor. If you think you may be at risk for developing Hashimoto’s due to your genes or environment, please call us today to schedule an appointment. We would be happy to answer any questions you have about this condition and provide you with more information on how to manage it.

Do You Need a Functional Medical Clinic You Can Trust?

As you know Functional Medicine asks how and why illness occurs and restores health by addressing the root causes of disease for each individual. Our goal for all of our patients at Hope for Healing is to optimize whole health, wellness, immunity, and longevity and find and fix the root problems permanently. All of our licensed medical providers have been trained by the Institute for Functional Medicine (ifm.org) and work collaboratively as part of the provider team under the leadership and direction of Paula Kruppstadt MD DABP FAAP IFMCP. We are trained to listen to our patients and take the time to do an appropriate root-cause analysis to find and implement permanent solutions together. If this sounds like we’d be the right fit for you, contact us today at (281) 725-6767!

Disclaimer

The materials available on this website are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not to provide health advice. You should contact your physician to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any content included in this site without seeking medical, legal or other professional advice. The information presented on this website may not reflect the most current medical developments. No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained on this website and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law.

5 Signs You May Have Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease that causes the thyroid gland to become inflamed. It is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States. Approximately 1 in 5 people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis don’t know they have it. Are you one of them? In this blog post, we will discuss the 5 most common signs of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. If you experience any of these symptoms, please see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment!

Let’s start by answering this question first – “What is Hashimoto’s disease?”

Hashimoto’s disease is a type of autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. It is commonly referred to as Hashimotos’s Thyroiditis, chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, or Autoimmune Thyroid Disease (ATD). The main function of our body’s metabolism depends on this small organ near your neck for its regulation with regard to how we turn food into energy and keep everything running smoothly throughout everyday life. If something happens against them then ATDs will start causing problems such as weight gain – which could lead to more serious illnesses like diabetes- because these hormones control what goes inside cells leading to an imbalance in the body.

There are 5 common signs that you may have Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis:

Hashimoto’s disease is not well understood by many people. The symptoms can be difficult to detect and understand, but knowing about them will help you get your life back on track!

1. Fatigue

One of the most common symptoms in people with Hashimoto’s is fatigue. If you struggle to get up in the morning or feel like your energy levels just aren’t there anymore, it could be an indication that this autoimmune condition has taken over and caused inflammation throughout your body which leads us not only being tired but also feeling sick all day long!

2. Gaining Weight

Hashimoto’s can make it difficult to lose weight. If you struggle with your metabolism despite putting in lots of effort, there could be a chance that the problem lies elsewhere—such as an issue within thyroid function or medications prescribed by doctors who don’t really understand Hashimoto’s disease themselves (or at least not nearly enough). The good news is we have other options like dietary changes and lifestyle modifications which might just work well enough while also improving this frustrating symptom.

3. Goiter

Goiters are usually present in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, but not all goiters cause symptoms. Symptoms may include throat tightness and coughs depending on the size of your tumor or secession from it; difficulty breathing if you have a large accumulation around your vocal cords ( enlarged larynx). This will be one indication that could point towards contracting this disorder – anytime there is swelling near our thyroids we should get checked out.

4. Constipation

Living a healthy lifestyle is not just about eating right and exercising. While these are important parts of staying on track, it’s also vital to address the cause if your constipation problems – which could be due in part to hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s disease (a type caused by an underactive thyroid).

The symptoms can come together beautifully with certain diets; however, you should always try modifiable causes before assuming there isn’t anything else going wrong.

5. Easily feeling cold

You might be too cold because your thyroid is not working properly. A common problem for people who live in areas with higher elevations and lower humidity, it can cause symptoms like feeling colder than others around you or difficulty adjusting to cooler environments – which could lead to other health problems if left untreated! If this sounds familiar then make sure that an adjustment has been made by checking out what’s going on up top before anything else happens- including getting treatment from one of our highly qualified doctors right away so as avoid long-term complications caused due lack of function in this part of the body.

Not everyone experiences all of these symptoms, and some people may experience different ones not mentioned here. If you think you might have Hashimoto’s, it’s important to see a doctor get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. With the right care, you can manage your symptoms and live a healthy life!

Have you been experiencing any of these symptoms? If so, it’s important to get checked out for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. Luckily, we can help! Give us a call today and let us know how we can best serve you.

Do You Need a Functional Medical Clinic You Can Trust?

As you know Functional Medicine asks how and why illness occurs and restores health by addressing the root causes of disease for each individual. Our goal for all of our patients at Hope for Healing is to optimize whole health, wellness, immunity, and longevity and find and fix the root problems permanently. All of our licensed medical providers have been trained by the Institute for Functional Medicine (ifm.org) and work collaboratively as part of the provider team under the leadership and direction of Paula Kruppstadt MD DABP FAAP IFMCP. We are trained to listen to our patients and take the time to do an appropriate root-cause analysis to find and implement permanent solutions together. If this sounds like we’d be the right fit for you, contact us today at (281) 725-6767!

Disclaimer

The materials available on this website are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not for the purpose of providing health advice. You should contact your physician to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. You should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any content included in this site without seeking medical, legal or other professional advice. The information presented on this website may not reflect the most current medical developments. No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained on this website and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law.

5 Most Common Thyroid Conditions and Their Symptoms

If you are like most people, you have probably never heard of the thyroid gland until you were diagnosed with a thyroid condition. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that plays a major role in metabolism and energy levels. There are many different thyroid conditions, and each one can cause different symptoms. In this blog post, we will discuss the 5 most common thyroid conditions and their symptoms.

What is a Thyroid?

The thyroid gland is an important part of your body. It’s located in the front portion, just below where you’ll find the hairline and above the neckline on either side near the windpipe (trachea). Shaped like a butterfly with two wide wings extending down towards the throat area where it helps regulate many vital functions for human survival such as metabolism!

Most Common Causes of Thyroid Problems

Thyroid disorders are common and may arise when your thyroid produces too much hormone (hyperthyroidism) or not enough. They can cause bothersome symptoms such as irritability, fatigue weight gain/loss, and goiter(enlarged thyroids). Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune response against cells in the immune system responsible for producing antigens that trigger inflammation. 

Symptoms vary among individuals but many will experience difficulty sleeping due to billowing heat censorship, and keen emotions exacerbated by stress – these extra feelings could come out, either way, depending on the person. Some might experience weight gain or loss, hair loss, brittle nails, and constipation. If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a doctor to get your thyroid checked.

What are the 5 Most Common Thyroid Conditions and Their Symptoms?

Thyroid conditions are relatively common, with around 20 million Americans affected. There are a number of different thyroid conditions, each with its own set of symptoms. The most common thyroid conditions include:

Hashimoto’s disease

Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune disorder that can lead to cell death due to the immune system attacking thyroid cells as if they were bacteria, viruses, or some other foreign body. Although there’s no clear cause of how this happens in Hashimotos’ patients yet, research has found certain factors may increase your chances of developing it such as genetic makeup along with environmental triggers like infection stress radiation exposure.

Hashimoto’s disease is a slow progression that can take years to notice. As your body becomes less able to produce its own hormones, you may experience any number of signs and symptoms such as:

  • fatigue or sluggishness
  • increased sensitivity to cold weather (especially effects on the hands)
  • sleepiness & drowsiness during activity
  • dry skin which leads, in turn, causes hair loss/thinning facial bone weakness leading to muscle aches stiff joints pain/stiffness
  • irregular menstruation
  • swelling tongue
  • irritability
  • changeableness mood swings and depression

Graves’ disease

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that results from an overproduction of thyroid hormones. Graves’ disease, one type of hyper THYROIDITIS has been linked as its cause and can therefore be treated by medication alone if left untreated or improperly treated for too long!

Common signs and symptoms of Graves’ disease include: 

  • anxiety
  • irritability a fine tremor in the hands or fingers
  • heat sensitivity
  • an increase in perspiration
  • warm moist skin
  • weight loss despite normal eating habits
  • enlargement thyroid gland goiter
  • change menstrual cycles
  • erectile dysfunction reduced libido
  • frequent bowel movements
  • bulging eyes (Graves ophthalmopathy)
  • fatigue thick red skin on shins/tops of feet rapids heartbeat(palpation)

Thyroiditis

Thyroiditis is a condition that causes inflammation of the thyroid gland. The butterfly-shaped organ at your endocrine system’s forefront controls many functions in our bodies by producing and releasing hormones that regulate everything from heart rate to metabolism.

Thyroiditis is a condition that causes your thyroid gland to produce too much or little hormones. Most types of thyroids will cause symptoms like the following:

  • hyperthyroidism (overactive) and hypothyroidism(underactive)
  • some people may also experience pain in their neck area due to the size change from enlarged goiter caused by particular kinds of this disease- acute infectious stage being one example

Goiter

Goiters are enlarged thyroid glands that can be caused by a lack of iodine in the diet or factors affecting its growth. Worldwide, they’re most commonly due to an irregular cell patterning that forms one or more lumps (nodules) inside your neck near where there would otherwise just have been skin tone– this type doesn’t change how far along something is developmental though so it may not affect function at all!

The goiter or swelling of the neck is usually only discovered during a routine medical exam. Signs and symptoms depend on whether thyroid function changes; how quickly it grows (and if this obstructs breathing), as well as what other conditions may be present at time point too – for example an imaging test might also show something else!

Thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer is a growing disease that starts in the thyroid gland. The small butterfly-shaped organ at the base of your neck, just below where you feel Adam’s apple when drinking deeply or talking loudly – this area is called “thyroids.” Thyroids produce hormones that regulate things like heart rate and blood pressure as well as body temperature with impacts on every aspect related to human health such as weight gain/loss; mood swings (including depression); difficulty swallowing caused by advanced stages of illness; and even hearing loss.

The cause of most thyroid cancers is unknown but there are some risk factors that can increase your chance of developing the disease such as having had radiation therapy to the head or neck region (for other cancers), a family history of the disease, and being exposed to high levels of iodine.

The most common symptom of thyroid cancer is a lump or swelling in the neck area, often painless, that you can feel or that is noticed by a doctor during a routine examination. Other symptoms can include hoarseness or voice changes that do not go away; difficulty swallowing; constant coughing unrelated to a cold or allergies; and unexplained weight loss/gain.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please call our office today. We can help you get the testing and treatment that you need to feel better. Knowing the most common thyroid conditions and their symptoms is a good first step in taking charge of your health. Don’t wait until it’s too late-call us today!

Do You Need a Functional Medical Clinic You Can Trust?

As you know Functional Medicine asks how and why illness occurs and restores health by addressing the root causes of disease for each individual. Our goal for all of our patients at Hope for Healing is to optimize whole health, wellness, immunity, and longevity and find and fix the root problems permanently. All of our licensed medical providers have been trained by the Institute for Functional Medicine (ifm.org) and work collaboratively as part of the provider team under the leadership and direction of Paula Kruppstadt MD DABP FAAP IFMCP. We are trained to listen to our patients and take the time to do an appropriate root-cause analysis to find and implement permanent solutions together. If this sounds like we’d be the right fit for you, contact us today at (281) 725-6767!

Disclaimer

The materials available on this website are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not to provide health advice. You should contact your physician to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any content included in this site without seeking medical, legal or other professional advice. The information presented on this website may not reflect the most current medical developments. No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained on this website and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law.

Thyroid 101: All the Basics You Need to Know in 2023

In 2023, Thyroid awareness will be at an all-time high! Why? Because more and more people are being diagnosed with Thyroid Disease every year. If you are one of those people, or if you know someone who is, it’s important to learn all about the Thyroid. What is the Thyroid? What does it do? How can you take care of it? In this blog post, we will answer all of those questions and more! So sit back and relax while we teach you everything you need to know about the Thyroid in 2023!

What is the thyroid?

From the front of your neck, near where you breathe in and out, lies a small organ called the thyroid. This butterfly-shaped gland is wrapped around two wide wings that extend out towards our collarbones when talking about health or medicine and often focuses more heavily than other parts does, but don’t forget how vital these functions really are!

What does your thyroid do for you?

The thyroid gland is an important part of the body’s metabolism. It releases and controls hormones that help regulate how fast or slow you burn calories, depending on what state (fasting vs eating) we’re in as well as where each hormone fits into this regulatory system; sending those signals out through communication channels like insulin so they can be used by other parts within metabolisms machine-like structures called “metabolic processes.” Metaboles involve taking food items converted from carbohydrates + protein+ fat – leaving behind energy which powers everything we do: thinking & growing repair.

The thyroid gland is an important organ in the neck that controls how fast you burn calories. It makes two hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine( T3), which are used by cells throughout our bodies to tell them about their energy needs – this helps keep metabolism going just right so we don’t get tired or bulky.

The pituitary gland is a complicated organ that monitors many different things. In order to keep our bodies functioning optimally, it sends signals based on what’s going on in the blood including whether or not you’re feeling stressed out and how much thyroid hormone someone has been releasing over time–both too little, as well as excessive amounts, can lead either way depending upon their specific needs.

There are many other glands in our endocrine system that play important roles in metabolism too – such as the adrenal gland (which response to stress), pancreas (which regulates blood sugar levels), and ovaries (which produce eggs in women) – but the thyroid is considered the “master” gland because it controls how all these others work. Thyroid disorders are therefore some of the most common hormone problems, affecting an estimated 20  million Americans.

Hashimoto’s disease is the most common thyroid disorder, but there are other conditions that can affect your thyroids. For instance; if you have an overactive gland due to Graves’ Disease or Thyroid Cancer it could lead eventually result in hypothyroidism so it’s important for people who think they might suffer from these types of illnesses get checked out by a doctor immediately!

How can you take good care of your thyroid?

Here are some effective ways you can keep your thyroid healthy:

Beware of sugar and processed foods

Sugar may seem to be everywhere these days, but it’s important not to let your guard down when you’re eating or drinking something sweet. Too much sugar can interfere with hormone production and trigger inflammation throughout the body! Processed foods also contain additives that could wreak havoc on any hormonal imbalance–so avoid them at all costs if this sounds like an issue for yourself or someone else in your life who needs healthy hormones as well.

Drink alcohol in moderation (or not at all!)

Drinking alcohol when you have a thyroid disorder can be dangerous to your health. It upsets the delicate balance of hormones produced by this organ and could cause dehydration – which brings on more hypothyroidism symptoms.

Stay hydrated with plenty of water throughout each day—and don’t forget to exercise!

The production of thyroid hormones requires a healthy diet and plenty of water, so it’s important that you drink at least eight glasses per day. In addition to drinking enough fluids, aim for regular exercise which helps improve circulation as well balance your hormone levels in the body.

Additionally, get regular checkups with your doctor, and be sure to monitor your thyroid levels

You should always check in with your doctor about any changes you notice. If the symptoms of thyroid disease are causing concern, it might be best for them to conduct an exam and test just to ensure that everything’s okay.”

As we always say your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that plays a big role in your overall health. It produces hormones that help regulate your metabolism and energy levels, among other things. So it’s important to take good care of your thyroid. Fortunately, this is pretty easy to do. Just follow the simple tips we’ve outlined above and you should be on your way to keeping your thyroid functioning optimally. Of course, if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call us—we’re always here to help!

Do You Need a Functional Medical Clinic You Can Trust?

As you know Functional Medicine asks how and why illness occurs and restores health by addressing the root causes of disease for each individual. Our goal for all of our patients at Hope for Healing is to optimize whole health, wellness, immunity, and longevity and find and fix the root problems permanently. All of our licensed medical providers have been trained by the Institute for Functional Medicine (ifm.org) and work collaboratively as part of the provider team under the leadership and direction of Paula Kruppstadt MD DABP FAAP IFMCP. We are trained to listen to our patients and take the time to do an appropriate root-cause analysis to find and implement permanent solutions together. If this sounds like we’d be the right fit for you, contact us today at (281) 725-6767!

Disclaimer

The materials available on this website are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not to provide health advice. You should contact your physician to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any content included in this site without seeking medical, legal or other professional advice. The information presented on this website may not reflect the most current medical developments. No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained on this website and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law.

The Best Advice You Can Hear About Hyperthyroidism in 2023

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that affects the thyroid gland and results in an overproduction of thyroid hormones. This can lead to a wide variety of symptoms, including weight loss, anxiety, and heart problems. If you are struggling with Hyperthyroidism, don’t worry – you are not alone! In this blog post, we will discuss the best advice you can hear about Hyperthyroidism in 2023. We will talk about the latest treatments and how to manage your condition effectively.

What is Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where your overactive thyroid gland produces more hormones than what’s needed. These excess amounts can lead to all sorts of symptoms, including rapid heartbeat and difficulty sleeping as well as weight loss or gain due in part to increased metabolism caused by this extra production (which also causes anxiety). There are treatments available for every type – some may only need medication like beta blockers if they’re causing tremors while others will require stronger drugs such as Inderal which act on both nervous system systems but have been proven much faster at calming things down when necessary.

Beta-blockers are a type of drug that can help with hyperthyroidism because they block the effects thyroid hormones have but don’t actually affect your thyroid itself. This means these medications won’t cure you or make it go away, instead their purpose is just to prevent some symptoms during flare-ups when taken correctly according o prescribing information from doctor’s offices and hospitals around America!

Anti-thyroid Drugs

The first line of treatment for hyperthyroidism is typically an anti-thyroid drug. These drugs slow down the production of thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. There are two types of anti-thyroid drugs: propylthiouracil (PTU) and methimazole (Tapazole).

What Are the Side Effects of Anti-Thyroid Drugs?

The most common side effect of PTU is nausea. Other potential side effects include:

  • Rash
  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Joint pain

Methimazole may cause:

  • Skin rash
  • Low blood counts

Radioactive Iodine Treatment

Radioactive iodine is the most popular permanent treatment for hyperthyroidism. It takes advantage of the fact that thyroid cells are uniquely able to absorb it, while other tissues lack this ability altogether-in fact these same hormones make sure they do everything possible so no one else can have what you’re having!

The iodine is taken in either pill or liquid form, and once it’s inside your thyroid gland it begins to emit radiation. This doesn’t harm the patient at all in fact you probably won’t even feel anything-but it does kill off most of the overactive cells in your thyroid. The dosage is very carefully calculated so that just enough tissue is destroyed to bring the gland back into its normal state, without causing any long-term damage or side effects. After the treatment, most people become hypothyroid and need to take daily hormone replacement pills for the rest of their lives, but this is a small price to pay for getting rid of an overactive thyroid.

Surgical Removal of the Gland or Nodule

The surgical removal of the thyroid gland is not as popular an option for hyperthyroidism treatment because it’s most commonly caused by overproduction from whole body (Graves’ Disease). However, these methods work quite well in almost all cases and there are other causes that call out for surgery such as early on during disease development – before symptoms even appear.

The two main types of surgery are called subtotal or total thyroidectomy. In a subtotal thyroidectomy, about 80-85% of the gland is removed while the rest is left in place to help preserve some function and avoid hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). A total thyroidectomy removes the entire gland and surrounding lymph nodes. This is generally recommended when there is cancer present or very large goiters that are difficult to remove any other way.

Recovery from either type of surgery takes about four to six weeks on average. During this time, you’ll be taking synthetic thyroxine (Levothyroxine) daily as well as calcium supplements to prevent bone loss. You’ll also need regular checkups with your doctor to make sure your dosage is correct and that you’re not having any problems.

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. There are several different treatment options for hyperthyroidism, including anti-thyroid drugs, radioactive iodine treatment, and surgical removal of the gland or nodule. If you think you may have hyperthyroidism, it’s important to see your doctor as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options can vary depending on the severity of your condition and other individual factors. If you have questions about any of the treatments for hyperthyroidism, please don’t hesitate to call us today!

Do You Need a Functional Medical Clinic You Can Trust?

As you know Functional Medicine asks how and why illness occurs and restores health by addressing the root causes of disease for each individual. Our goal for all of our patients at Hope for Healing is to optimize whole health, wellness, immunity, and longevity and find and fix the root problems permanently. All of our licensed medical providers have been trained by the Institute for Functional Medicine (ifm.org) and work collaboratively as part of the provider team under the leadership and direction of Paula Kruppstadt MD DABP FAAP IFMCP. We are trained to listen to our patients and take the time to do an appropriate root-cause analysis to find and implement permanent solutions together. If this sounds like we’d be the right fit for you, contact us today at (281) 725-6767!

Disclaimer

The materials available on this website are for informational and entertainment purposes only and not to provide health advice. You should contact your physician to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. You should not act or refrain from acting based on any content included in this site without seeking medical, legal or other professional advice. The information presented on this website may not reflect the most current medical developments. No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained on this website and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law.