Case Study: Hypothyroid (Underactive Thyroid)
Names have been changed for patient privacy.
Heather’s Background
Heather was 42 years old when she started treatment at Georgia Hormones. Problem Five years earlier, her primary care doctor had noted elevated Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels. Doing no further tests, she was prescribed 75 mcg of Synthroid. Over a period of time the dosage was increased, but Heather still wasn’t feeling any better. She often complained about being cold — her hands and feet “felt like icebergs.” Her hair had started thinning along with the ends of her eyebrows, and she had been gradually gaining weight. Her periods were heavier and more frequent, and she was susceptible to catching colds. Treatment Plan In addition to TSH, we checked Heather’s thyroid hormone levels for T4 and T3. We also looked at all three thyroid antibodies, which indicated that Heather had a high level of TPO antibodies. These antibodies are usually caused by an allergic reaction to eating wheat products and is called Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. This was the underlying cause of Heather’s thyroid problems. Synthroid is Levothyroxine (a bioidentical T4), but Heather needed more T3. T3 is made from T4, but Heather does not do a good job of creating it. Results Heather started losing weight, and her cholesterol count was lower. Her periods were not as heavy, and she was getting fewer colds. Slowly, her hair grew back and her eyebrows filled out. Heather is delighted with the outcome and feels happier and healthier. Note: Approximately 17% of American women over 35 have elevated thyroid antibodies. Unfortunately, it is not common practice for mainstream doctors to check for antibody counts. They can be included as part of standard testing from any laboratory. |
