What is it?

Hypothyroidism describes the general under-functioning of an individual’s thyroid. It can be caused in different ways, including autoimmune thryoiditis, or Hashimoto - an autoimmune condition, in which antibodies target the thyroid and cause it to under-function. The onset of autoimmune hypothyroidism often accompanies big shifts in hormones (such as pregnancy, miscarriage or menopause), times of extreme stress, trauma, toxic exposure or infections in the body.

Common symptoms of a low functioning thyroid include:

• Fatigue

• Cold intolerance

• Constipation

• Weight gain

• Hair loss

Less common symptoms include:

• Significant digestive concerns

• Brain fog

• Joint pain

• Carpal tunnel

• Hives

• Changes to menstrual cycle

An under-functioning thyroid can have significant negative effects on your quality of life. Testing is straightforward and a customized treatment plan can dramatically improve symptoms.

Step-by-step approach to treatment

Comprehensive intake and relevant lab testing
We always start by gathering your complete health history, assessing not only the symptoms you are presenting with, but also those which relate to the foundations of health - including your stress and energy levels, sleep and digestive health. Relevant lab testing is always discussed. By obtaining lab results - specifically blood work - we get a clearer insight into the function of your body’s physiology. These insights are a great tool for guiding treatment. Naturopathic doctors are trained to look for lab results to be within optimal ranges, not just what may be considered conventionally “normal”. This is because you may be within all the normal lab parameters but still experiencing very real symptoms.

Lab tests commonly run to assess thyroid function:

• Thyroid stimulating hormone

• Free T4 (thyroid hormone - less active form)

• Free T3 (thyroid hormone - more active form)

• Reverse T3

• Thyroid antibodies (Anti-TPO, Anti-TG)
  

Supporting the foundations of health
With any health concern, supporting the foundations of health is essential, and always where treatment starts.This includes assessing and addressing stress levels, sleep quality, energy levels, inflammation, insulin regulation, digestive function and nutrient deficiencies.

Customized treatment plan
Once lab results have been interpreted, a customized treatment plan will be created just for YOU. This is not a one-size-fits-all treatment plan, but rather one that is specific to your individual health concerns and addresses your body’s physiology. You will leave your appointment with your written treatment plan as well as any relevant handouts so you feel equipped to start your treatments when you get home.
We understand that starting on a new regime of supplements and implementing lifestyle and dietary changes can be overwhelming. If you need support along the way, know that we are here for you. Additional check-in appointments can be made to support you on your journey to optimal health.

Common treatments for supporting an under functioning thyroid include:

• Specific nutrients/herbs to support conversion of thyroid hormones (selenium, bladderwrack, blue iris)

• Address nutrient deficiencies, especially those which support the immune system (iron, vitamin D, B vitamins)

• Nutrient-dense dietary plan with a focus on antioxidants or the autoimmune paleo diet (AIP)

Follow up testing and treatment adjustments
Typically we book a follow up appointment 3 months and 6 months after starting your treatment plan so we can assess symptoms and retest necessary labs. With thyroid conditions, it is important to monitor your thyroid’s function and retest labs every 6-12 months.

It is our goal and our hope that after treatment has begun you will start to feel noticeable improvements.

In some cases it’s not that simple and further assessment is required. Know that if you’re not seeing improvements, we can always reassess, do further testing and make adjustments to your plan along the way. The goal is to get you not only feeling better, but feeling like YOU again!

Maintenance - addressing any new concerns
While we are here for you at any time along your health journey, it is not our goal to have you come in for regular appointments. Once you’ve started to have success with your treatment plan you may only require annual, bi-annual or as-needed appointments. In these appointments we assess the original concerns you presented, as well as any new symptoms or concerns you are experiencing.