If you’re struggling with the symptoms of hypothyroidism, Frankl Clinic’s expert team is here to help. As a wellness center specializing in thyroid hormone replacement in Lubbock, we provide personalized care and support to help you achieve optimal thyroid hormone levels. We help you overcome hypothyroidism symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid Hormone Insufficiency
Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped organ in the neck, doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. The thyroid hormone regulates metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and energy levels, among other bodily functions. When the thyroid gland can’t produce enough thyroid hormone, it can lead to weight gain, fatigue, constipation, dry skin, cold intolerance, and depression. Hypothyroidism can be effectively managed and treated with a daily dose of thyroid hormone replacement.
Hypothyroidism vs. Hyperthyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to fatigue, weight gain, depression, and constipation. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormone, which can cause symptoms like weight loss, irritability, tremors, rapid heartbeat, and sweating. Graves’ disease is one of the leading factors responsible for hyperthyroidism because it triggers the thyroid gland to produce too much thyroid hormone. Our wellness clinic offers thyroid hormone replacement in Lubbock to aid in those needing help regulating their thyroid.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Dry skin and hair loss
- Intolerance to cold temperatures
- Constipation and bloating
- Depression, anxiety, or mood swings
- Memory problems or difficulty concentrating
- Muscle or joint pain
- Irregular or heavy menstrual periods
- High cholesterol levels
- Slow heart rate
- Decreased sweating
- Swelling of the thyroid gland (goiter)
Some people may experience only a few symptoms or no symptoms, so getting regular check-ups with a healthcare provider is crucial. If you’re experiencing these symptoms or have concerns about your thyroid function, consult a medical professional today.
Potential Causes of Hypothyroidism:
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder that damages the thyroid gland
- Surgical removal of the thyroid gland
- Radiation treatment to the neck or head, which can damage the thyroid gland
- Certain medications, such as lithium or amiodarone
- Congenital hypothyroidism, in which a baby is born without a functioning thyroid gland
- Pituitary gland dysfunction, which can disrupt the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone
- Inflammation or viral infections that affect the thyroid gland
Hypothyroidism & Pregnancy
Hypothyroidism during pregnancy can have significant implications for the mother and the developing fetus. Since thyroid hormone is crucial for the normal development of the baby’s brain and nervous system, insufficient thyroid can negatively impact the baby’s growth, we can help with thyroid hormone replacement in Lubbock. An untreated hypothyroidism during pregnancy can increase the risk of preterm delivery, low birth weight, and miscarriage. It can also cause problems for the mother, including high blood pressure and an increased risk of postpartum depression.
Hypothyroidism & Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) can stem from various physical, psychological, and hormonal causes. Hypothyroidism is among the potential contributors to ED. This condition can cause various symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and low libido, which can impact sexual function. Hypothyroidism can also lower testosterone levels, a crucial hormone for male sexual function. With proper management of hypothyroidism, the symptoms of ED may also improve.
What is Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Thyroid hormone replacement therapy is the most common treatment for hypothyroidism, and it involves taking a medication that contains thyroid hormone to restore normal hormone levels. The most frequently used medication is levothyroxine, a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4), a thyroid hormone. The primary goal of thyroid hormone replacement in Lubbock is to alleviate symptoms by normalizing hormone levels. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage of thyroid hormone replacement medication based on your individual needs and the severity of your hypothyroidism.
Your healthcare provider will start you on a low dosage of thyroid hormone replacement medication and gradually increase it until your thyroid hormone levels are normalized. You will need to have regular blood tests to monitor your thyroid hormone or TSH levels, typically every six to eight weeks at the beginning of treatment. You may not feel an immediate improvement in your symptoms, as it can take several weeks or even months for the medication to take effect.
Benefits of Thyroid Hormone Replacement:
- Relief from hypothyroidism symptoms, including fatigue, depression, and weight gain
- Improved energy levels and overall sense of wellbeing
- Enhanced cognitive function and memory
- Improved cholesterol levels
- Improved heart function and decreased risk of cardiovascular disease
- Potential improvement in fertility and menstrual irregularities
- Reduced risk of developing goiter or thyroid nodules
- Improvement in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder that causes hypothyroidism
To learn more about the benefits of thyroid hormone replacement in Lubbock, contact us today.
Thyroid Hormone Replacement in Lubbock
At Frankl Clinic in Lubbock, thyroid hormone replacement therapy is one of the many treatments available to patients with hypothyroidism. Led by experienced medical provider Shane Frankl, we offer personalized hormone therapy based on your specific goals and symptoms. If you experience the symptoms of hypothyroidism or are concerned about your thyroid function, please schedule an appointment and learn more about your treatment options in Lubbock.
