Hypothyroidism

Stoneleigh Medical Group

Gastroenterologists & Internal Medicine located in Brewster, NY & Jefferson Valley, NY

Your thyroid is a small but powerful gland that produces hormones that regulate body functions ranging from your metabolism to your sex drive. At Stoneleigh Medical Group in Carmel, Brewster, Pawling, Yorktown Heights, and Jefferson Valley, New York, their team can assess your thyroid function to diagnose hypothyroidism and offer natural therapies and hormone replacement therapy to restore your health. Call Stoneleigh Medical Group or make an appointment online today.

Hypothyroidism Q&A

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid is underactive and doesn't produce enough thyroxine (T4) or triiodothyronine (T3). Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune disorder, is a common cause of an underactive thyroid.

Thyroiditis, or an inflamed thyroid, can also cause reduced hormone production. You might also develop a hypoactive thyroid if your pituitary gland doesn't produce enough thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

Hypothyroidism is underdiagnosed. The range for thyroid hormone levels is relatively broad, and many patients on the low side of normal would benefit from an integrative approach to thyroid health. However, they go undiagnosed and untreated because their bloodwork is technically normal.

What are the signs of hypothyroidism?

Your thyroid controls a wide range of functions. As a result, it causes a variety of disruptive symptoms, including:

Fatigue
Weight gain
Joint and muscle pain
Intolerance to cold
Constipation
Dry skin
Depression
Thin and brittle hair and nails
Heavy, painful periods
High cholesterol levels

A variety of other health issues can cause similar symptoms, or they're often passed off as signs of aging. The team at Stoneleigh Medical Group doesn't accept this approach. They understand the critical function of your hormones and work with you to identify and treat hormonal problems, including hypothyroidism.

How is hypothyroidism diagnosed?

Stoneleigh Medical Group offers comprehensive testing to identify the condition causing your symptoms. Blood tests provide information about your hormone levels and pituitary function. They also check for other conditions that can cause similar health issues.

How is hypothyroidism treated?

Stoneleigh Medical Group provides a customized approach to improving your thyroid function and restoring your hormonal balance. In addition to medications and conventional thyroid hormone therapy, the team can offer natural therapies to enhance your immune system function and support a healthy endocrine system.

Your provider at Stoneleigh Medical Group might also recommend dietary changes and nutritional supplements to support thyroid function and your overall health. They can recommend vitamins, herbs, probiotics, and other supplements to enhance your health.

If you're concerned about your thyroid function, call Stoneleigh Medical Group or make an appointment online today.