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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Nutritional deficiencies — Nutrient deficiencies like iodine, zinc, or iron deficiency may trigger hypothyroidism and other health issues. Simple dietary changes can treat this condition.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.