Years ago I struggled unknowingly with ALL the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism...feeling like my body was failing me but having no answers as to what was happening (for my personal story - Click Here). After a whirlwind of a personal journey, I now know to always ALWAYS rule out hypothyroidism whenever someone presents with fatigue and weight gain. But these two symptom barely scratch the surface of hypothyroid symptoms....let's dive in a bit more to see if you relate.
7 Common Signs & Symptoms of Hypothyroidism:
Fatigue and insomnia not relieved by sleep or rest
Stubborn weight gain or inability to lose weight despite calorie restriction and exercise (most notice weight gain is seen in the face)
Cold and dry skin
Cold intolerance and poor circulation
Prolonged healing time (including scrapes, bruises, burns, and post-workout muscle recovery)
Depression and Anxiety
Hair loss
Why do all these unpleasant symptoms happen when your thyroid is under-functioning? In short, your thyroid (which is a gland on the front of your neck) is responsible for making thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone is needed for Every. Single. Cell. in your body to function. So if it's under-functioning...Every. Single. Cell. in your body is under-functioning. Hence the hair loss, fatigue, weight gain, cold and dry skin, and prolonged healing time.
Thankfully this condition is relatively simple to diagnose. Conventionally, a simple blood test measuring TSH is drawn. But as a naturopathic doctor, I prefer to order TSH plus FT4, FT3, TPO-Ab, and occasionally hyperthyroid and celiac markers to get the full thyroid picture.
If you are struggling with thyroid concerns or relate to the symptoms mentioned above, I'd highly encourage you to take our in-depth course on thyroid health. We cover the anatomy and physiology of the thyroid, how to read your lab work, lifestyle modifications, and natural remedies to support the thyroid. As always, you can book an appointment with us for extra guidance and support. Let's get you feeling like your true self again!
At IVY Integrative, you can work with one practitioner or build your own team of holistic practitioners! Reach your optimum health in-person or online. Check out our Get Started page to learn how to work with us!
Until next week where we start to jump into lifestyle modifications to support your thyroid,
Dr. Chelsea Leander ND, RH (AHG)
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Disclaimer:
This information is generalized and intended for educational purposes only. Due to potential individual contraindications, please see your primary care provider before implementing any strategies in these posts.