Thyroid Health
As we go about our day, the thyroid quietly performs its essential role, ensuring everything runs smoothly. This behind-the-scenes powerhouse multitasks by regulating metabolism, balancing blood pressure, controlling body temperature, and managing heart rate—all in one remarkable gland.
Hormones produced by the thyroid gland play a vital role in regulating heart rate, body temperature, blood pressure, weight, energy levels, gastrointestinal movement, and perspiration. Because of these widespread effects, low thyroid function (hypothyroidism) can contribute to a variety of health conditions. For example, it can reduce serotonin activity in the brain, leading to symptoms of depression that may improve—or even resolve—when thyroid balance is restored. Fatigue and exhaustion are also common signs of low thyroid function, although these symptoms may also be linked to poor adrenal health. Feeling cold—especially in the hands and feet—is another common indicator, as thyroid hormone helps regulate the body's internal temperature.
Low thyroid levels can also contribute to muscle weakness, cramps, joint pain (particularly in the knees and hands), and even tendonitis. People with hypothyroidism often report mild but persistent headaches, as well as unexplained weight gain due to impaired metabolism of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Additionally, sluggish reflexes—especially in the Achilles tendon—can be a physical sign of thyroid dysfunction. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, thorough testing can help determine whether your thyroid or adrenal function is at the root of the issue.
Common Thyroid Related Conditions
What is the Thyroid Gland?
The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland that is found at the base of your neck. This gland is responsible for regulating the metabolism of every cell in your body via the production of two hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4).
Why test Thyroid via urine?
TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is a hormone secreted in the brain to control thyroid function. A blood test for TSH is still considered the primary test for diagnosing thyroid disease. However, many women and men have normal serum TSH levels despite having classic symptoms of low thyroid function (hypothyroidism). The urine thyroid assessment offers an alternate means of measuring thyroid function when the patient is symptomatic but conventional serum tests are normal. A 24 hour urine collection can be used to help determine if symptoms are thyroid related.
Depending on the degree of deficiency, low thyroid function may be treated with nutritional supplements or with prescription thyroid hormones. Dr. Gansner will gather a complete picture of how the thyroid is functioning, and then develop a personalized treatment plan. Treatments can include correcting nutritional deficiencies, lowering antibody levels, hormone replacement and other recommended lifestyle changes to improve overall health and assist thyroid function.
Good health has a lot to do with maintaining balance: the right balance of work and play, the right balance of nutrients in the diet, and the right kinds of foods. Because thyroid hormones affect many body systems, thyroid disease can produce a variety of symptoms. Optimal thyroid function is an essential component of good health. Dr. Gansner can offer tests that identify hormone imbalances and other conditions - so these can be corrected before disease develops!