Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism services offered in Fresno, CA

Five out of 100 people in the United States have hypothyroidism, and many live with symptoms that disrupt their life. At Valley Natural Health, Sonal Patel, ND, and the medical team offer onsite blood testing to confirm hypothyroidism is the cause of your symptoms. They design a treatment plan using medications to restore your thyroid hormone levels and continue to monitor your progress through treatment in the long-term. Call the office in Fresno, California, to schedule a consultation for hypothyroidism or book an appointment online today.

hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism Q&A

What is hypothyroidism?

Your thyroid is a small but powerful gland in the front of your neck. Your thyroid is responsible for controlling your metabolism, which is what helps your body convert food to energy.

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is a condition when your thyroid doesn’t make enough or release enough thyroid hormones into your bloodstream. A lack of thyroid hormones slows down your metabolism, affecting many functions in your body.

While anyone can develop hypothyroidism, it is common in women over 60 who reach their post-menopausal years.

You may also be more likely to have hypothyroidism if you have an iodine deficiency, have certain hereditary conditions, or if you have inflammation of your thyroid (thyroiditis).

When should I seek treatment for hypothyroidism?

You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Valley Natural Health if you have symptoms of hypothyroidism that affect your quality of life. These symptoms can include:

Persistent fatigue
Unexplained weight gain
Depression
Dry, coarse skin
Loss of sexual interest
Puffiness in the face and eyes
Increased sensitivity to cold temperatures

Women who are still having their periods may experience heavy or frequent menstrual bleeding.

The Valley Natural Health team offers onsite blood testing to evaluate your thyroid hormone levels. They also physically examine your thyroid gland to check for inflammation.

Without treatment, hyperthyroidism can lead to serious health complications and become life-threatening. Untreated hypothyroidism can cause mental health issues, breathing difficulties, and heart problems. You can also develop a goiter, which is an enlarged thyroid gland that protrudes from your neck.

How is hypothyroidism treated?

Your treatment plan for hypothyroidism may include medications that increase the amount of thyroid hormone your body produces. You need to take medication for the rest of your life to keep your hormone levels stable.

The Valley Natural Health team continues to monitor your hormone levels and can make medication adjustments as necessary. They may also recommend lifestyle and diet changes to boost your energy levels, make weight loss easier, and improve your overall quality of life.

Call Valley Natural Health to schedule a hypothyroidism evaluation or book an appointment online today.