Managing Hashimoto's Thyroiditis in Creve Coeur & St. Louis, MO
What is Hashimoto Thyroiditis?
Hashimoto thyroiditis is also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, and it is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the thyroid gland. It’s also a type of hypothyroidism, which means your thyroid doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone.
Characteristics of Hashimoto thyroiditis
Hashimoto thyroiditis can run in families, and middle-aged women are most likely to develop the condition.
Signs and symptoms of Hashimoto thyroiditis
Hashimoto thyroiditis shares many of the same signs and symptoms as other forms of hypothyroidism. These include:
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Frequently feeling cold, with difficulty keeping warm
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Chronic fatigue along with muscle pain and cramping
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Losing your hair and having extremely dry skin
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Chronic constipation and weight gain
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Depression and a low tolerance for activity
Diagnosis of Hashimoto thyroiditis
Along with a comprehensive medical and physical examination and record of symptoms, Hashimoto thyroiditis can be diagnosed with a blood test. The presence of thyroid peroxidase or TPO antibodies in the blood indicates Hashimoto thyroiditis. Thyroid function tests are also performed.
Treatment of Hashimoto thyroiditis
If TPO antibodies are detected but thyroid function is normal, treatment may not be needed. If a patient has mild hypothyroidism, repeat testing after 3 to 6 months is indicated, and medication may be postponed. For obvious hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone replacement therapy is indicated.
How the Environmental Health Center can help you
Dr. Sultan uses many diagnostic tools to determine the underlying cause of your hypothyroidism. A patient’s environment, genetic factors, lifestyle, and other issues are all discussed in an effort to pinpoint and address the root cause of your condition.
Using a broad, interconnected system of treatment modalities in a holistic approach, Dr. Sultan can help your thyroid function normally again, so you can feel better.