Hypothyroidism

Heal your hypothyroidism — permanently.

Visit PrimeHealth in Denver, Colorado, less than a mile from Sloans Lake, if you’re concerned about hypothyroidism.

Our expert thyroid specialists utilize science-backed treatment plans catered to each individual, to address the root cause of hypothyroidism, instead of just masking the symptoms.

Hypothyroidism refers to an underactive thyroid gland which can lead to fatigue, IBS, weight gain, depression, and other symptoms.

This endocrine disorder impacts 5% of Americans, with another 5% estimated to be undiagnosed.

Conventional doctors may say that hypothyroidism is incurable, but we have permanently reversed hypothyroidism in countless patients.

We do this by identifying and treating the underlying cause, rather than just giving a prescription to manage symptoms for the rest of your life.

PrimeHealth is an integrative health clinic on W 16th Ave in Lakewood, Colorado — west Denver near scenic Walker-Branch Park. Book a free 20-minute consultation, designed for new patients to see if we’re the right fit before committing to a follow-up!

What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?

The symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

  • Enlarged thyroid (goiter)
  • Thyroid nodules (small, fluid-filled bumps)
  • Fatigue
  • Weight gain, higher obesity risk
  • Snoring
  • Hoarseness
  • Muscle weakness
  • High cholesterol
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Constipation
  • Dry skin
  • Thinning hair
  • Irregular periods
  • Infertility
  • Bone loss, higher osteoporosis risk
  • Impaired memory
  • Irritable bowel syndrome

 

Read more: Hypothyroidism Weight Loss

A major cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease that impacts the thyroid gland. Because of hypothyroidism’s connection with Hashimoto’s, other autoimmune disorders and autoimmune symptoms are commonly present in thyroid patients. 

Hypothyroidism is closely associated with hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Though they never present at the same time, some patients experience a back-and-forth between Hashimoto’s underactive thyroid and Graves’ disease (the autoimmune cause of hyperthyroidism).

Do your symptoms never go away, even with medication?

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consider seeing a functional doctor to diagnose your medical condition. The medical experts at PrimeHealth (in Colorado) have years of experience identifying and treating tricky disorders for people like you. PrimeHealth is offering free 20-minute consultations to see if we’re the right fit for you.

Diagnosing Hypothyroidism [Conventional vs. Functional]

To reverse hypothyroidism, we have to diagnose the root cause.

Conventional endocrinologists will only check one or two diagnostic markers: usually just TSH and free T4. They barely scratch the surface and neglect critical tests. However, more blood tests can more comprehensively evaluate your thyroid gland function.

Here are the diagnostic markers measured by the functional thyroid doctors at PrimeHealth in Denver:

TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) in the pituitary gland
Free T4
Free T3
Total T4
Total T3
Reverse T3
Anti-TPO, anti-thyroglobulin (Hashimoto’s antibodies)
TBG (thyroid-binding globulin)

Here are some of the additional diagnostic markers that we check at PrimeHealth that are critically linked to thyroid function:

Zinc Level
Selenium level
Iron studies and ferritin
Metabolic markers like Hemoglobin A1c
Inflammatory markers like hs-CRP
Vitamin D
B12, folate, and homocysteine

Read more: Normal Thyroid Levels: Typical Numbers & How Testing Works

Because we are all constantly exposed to various toxins that can affect thyroid function, we may focus our diagnostic tests on identifying various toxins that could result in thyroid dysfunction. For example, heavy metals like lead and mercury, mold toxins (aka mycotoxins), and environmental pollutants all have an ability to negatively affect thyroid function and potentiate autoimmunity. 

Diagnosing the root cause and severity of your thyroid condition may take significant investigation. That’s why we develop personalized diagnostic plans. Every body is different.

Have you ever been told your labs look normal, but you know there’s something wrong?

If you’re ready for a more comprehensive, more individualized diagnostic plan, schedule an appointment with the PrimeHealth clinic in Lakewood, Colorado. We offer in-person and telehealth services for Colorado residents.

7 Root Causes of Hypothyroidism

It’s vital to understand the root cause of your hypothyroidism because treating that root cause is how you reverse hypothyroidism.

Conventional thyroid doctors near you may say hypothyroidism is “incurable” simply because there’s not a one-size-fits-all pill. However, based on your unique situation, hypothyroidism can be reversed in many cases by identifying and treating the root cause.

The 7 most common root causes of hypothyroidism are:

  1. Hormone imbalance — If your hormone levels are imbalanced (not only thyroid hormone levels), this can trigger an underactive thyroid. Pregnancy, menopause, puberty, and chronic stress can all lead to imbalanced hormones.
  2. Food sensitivity — Food allergens can result in hypothyroidism. Celiac disease has been linked with an increased risk of autoimmune disease, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
  3. Infections — Tick-borne infections like Lyme disease, viral infections like Epstein-Barr, and gut infections like candida, parasites, or SIBO may lead to an underactive thyroid.
  4. Nutritional deficienciesNutrient deficiencies like iodine, zinc, or iron deficiency may trigger hypothyroidism and other health issues. Simple dietary changes can treat this condition.
  5. Injury or trauma — After an injury to your thyroid (neck area), thyroid cancer treatment, or post-surgery, your thyroid gland may be inflamed or damaged, causing hypothyroidism.
  6. Leaky gut — When your intestines are chronically inflamed, the tight junction proteins in your intestines let toxins, bacteria, and food particles escape from the gut into the bloodstream, leading to inflammation. Leaky gut is both a cause and a symptom of hypothyroidism, and it’s closely associated with the other five root causes of hypothyroidism.
  7. Toxin exposure — Harmful toxins can wreak havoc on your thyroid. Watch out for heavy metal exposure, mold toxins, pesticides, and industrial chemicals. Daily workplace exposure to toxins is a risk factor for hypothyroidism.

To learn the root cause and devise an individualized treatment plan, contact the best thyroid specialists at PrimeHealth in Denver, Colorado, and set up an appointment right away.

Our Hypothyroidism Reversal Program: Treatments That Work

Your body has the ability to heal. Let’s unlock that healing potential.

Everyone’s hypothyroidism reversal plan is different, but there are common treatments for common root causes.

  • Hypothyroidism diet — The autoimmune Paleo (AIP) diet is a great place to start for Hashimoto’s disease (the number one direct cause of hypothyroidism). For 1-6 months, this restrictive diet can reveal food allergens and sensitivities.
  • Supplements — Depending on the underlying cause of your thyroid disease, targeted supplements may benefit you. Common dietary supplements for hypothyroidism include iodine, vitamin D, probiotics, selenium, curcumin, and chasteberry.
  • Lifestyle changes — Reducing daily stress, regular exercise, avoiding home or workplace toxins, limiting alcohol, and quitting tobacco can all reduce your risk for hypothyroidism.
  • Medication — If it’s necessary and safe, we prescribe either a desiccated thyroid medication which is in a ratio of 4:1 T4 to T3, such as Armour Thyroid and Nature Throid, or a compounded synthetic combination of T4 and T3 fashioned in a personalized ratio made just for you.

What is the best doctor to see for hypothyroidism? The best doctor to see for hypothyroidism is a functional thyroid expert, like the ones at PrimeHealth in Denver, Colorado.

If your primary care doctor refers you to a conventional endocrinologist, don’t expect them to try and reverse your disorder. Instead, they may prescribe medication only to manage symptoms.

What will a doctor do if I have hypothyroidism? A conventional healthcare provider will prescribe one-size-fits-all levothyroxine if you have hypothyroidism. Conversely, a functional doctor will identify and treat the underlying cause of your thyroid disorder, based on your unique situation.

The earlier we address the root cause of your thyroid or parathyroid condition, the sooner you can begin to reverse it. Contact PrimeHealth today to start discussing hypothyroidism treatment ASAP. Denver residents and out-of-town patients are all welcome.

Have any questions?

PrimeHealth Denver proudly offers a wide range of treatments and services based on leading research and a whole-body approach. Whether you are struggling with a chronic condition or simply looking to optimize your health, we will work with you to develop a personalized care plan.

Patient Success Stories

Jamie Olivarez

“I entered as just diagnosed with Hashimotos and levels over 2,000 to now being almost in remission. I am no longer Vitamin D and B deficient. No longer have brain fog, joint pain, insomnia, imbalanced hormones, and so on and so on. I feel the best I have felt in almost 10 years.”

Betsy McLaughlin

“They have changed my life. I was diagnosed with Hashimotos hypothyroid 2.5 years ago. I was exhausted all the time, my hair was falling out, I was anxious, and I had gained a lot of weight. Needless to say I was very unhappy. My diagnosis was almost a relief, since I realized there was a…

Renee Tavoularis

“I discovered Dr. Rafatjah after being frustrated and confused on how to manage my hashimoto’s thyroid disease, perimenopause, and adrenal fatigue – my previous endocrinologist, gynecologist, and general internist were not on the same page. Dr. Rafatjah took the time to look at me holistically, understand my unique factors, and treat me, the whole person.…

Jamie Olivarez

“For the last 10 years I have felt off and was certain it was my thyroid but was always told it was borderline but not an issue. If only I had known what I know now! Dr. Rafatjah, Katie and Luke have been life changing and life giving to me the past 6 months. I…

Susan Schmidt

“After 15 years of suboptimal thyroid function, I’m happy to announce my thyroid and I are much healthier and happier”

Lianna Nielsen

“She is extremely knowledgeable and helped me a lot with my inflammatory autoimmune condition.”

Evann Lepro

“After discovering thyroid imbalances during my annual bloodwork, a traditional endocrinologist put me on medications. My bloodwork numbers improved, but my symptoms did not. I felt like this doctor was looking at one body part in a vacuum. She (Dr. Rafatjah) worked with me on supplements, diet, and lifestyle habits. Over a few months, my…

Jamie Olivarez

“Dr. Rafatjah, Katie and Luke have been life changing and life giving to me the past 6 months.“

Betsy McLaughlin

“I had no idea that in less than a year my life could change so much.”

Betsy McLaughlin

“After working with PrimeHealth, not only is my thyroid optimal, but my inflammation has decreased significantly and I have lost almost 40 pounds! I have so much more energy and life in me than I did last year. “

Christina Rohm

I highly recommend Dr. Soyona Rafatjah. I knew something was “off” in my body and, after she ordered extensive blood work for me, she was able to diagnosis my rare condition. She then devised a creative and personalized treatment plan which improved and even reversed many of my symptoms. I feel so much better today…

Mary Ann Rounseville

Dr. R is an incredible doctor and person. I worked with her for over a year on auto-immune and thyroid issues. She looks at your whole health from lifestyle, diet, stress management, and more. She’s extremely knowledgeable about natural and functional practices as well as traditional ones, but she always looks at the underlying roots…

Susan Schmidt

As a healthcare provider myself, I found that I was confused and misguided when it came to optimizing my own health. I decided to work with Dr. Rafatjah to sort it all out and she did not disappoint! After 15 years of suboptimal thyroid function, I’m happy to announce my thyroid and I am much…

Renee Tavoularis

I discovered Dr. Rafatjah after being frustrated and confused on how to manage my Hashimoto’s thyroid disease, perimenopause, and adrenal fatigue – my previous endocrinologist, gynecologist, and general internist were not on the same page. Dr. Rafatjah took the time to look at me holistically, understand my unique factors, and treat me, the whole person.…

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