Dr. Heather M. Veronesi discusses common symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and Graves' disease. Key lab tests for thyroid disorders are explained, along with the importance of addressing autoimmune components. The speaker emphasizes the caution needed when using iodine with autoimmune thyroid conditions and the potential life-threatening nature of thyroid storm. The video also covers the impact of trauma, childbirth, and medication cessation on thyroid health, as well as the availability of a wellness adviser for one-on-one appointments.

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When it comes to overall health, the thyroid gland plays a pivotal role. Dr. Heather Veronesi, affectionately known as Dr. Vee by her patients, shared her expertise on thyroid disorders, highlighting their symptoms, causes, and practical management strategies.

What Is Hypothyroidism?

The most common thyroid disorder is hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland underperforms, slowing down many of the body’s processes. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue and low energy
• Feeling cold frequently
• Unexplained weight gain
• Constipation or slowed digestion
• Muscle aches and general body weakness
• Memory issues and brain fog
• Thinning of the outer eyebrows
• Dry skin, brittle hair, and nails
• Reduced libido
• Menstrual irregularities
• Depression and slowed heart rate
• Anemia and infertility

While anyone can develop hypothyroidism, it is especially common in women over the age of 40. However, younger women and men can also be affected.

What Causes Thyroid Dysfunction?

Several factors can contribute to thyroid disorders:

• Autoimmune conditions: The body attacks its own thyroid, leading to disorders like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (low function) and Graves’ disease (overactive thyroid).
• Stress and trauma: Life changes like childbirth or major surgeries can disrupt thyroid function.
• Iodine deficiency: Not consuming enough iodine, typically found in seafood, can lead to thyroid enlargement (goiter).

Diagnosing Thyroid Issues

Diagnosing thyroid problems involves testing key hormones and antibodies:

• TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): Signals the thyroid to produce hormones.
• T3 and T4: Active and inactive thyroid hormones, respectively. Low T3 can lead to symptoms even if T4 appears normal.
• Reverse T3: An inactive mirror image of T3 that can block proper thyroid function.
• Autoimmune antibodies: Elevated thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and thyroglobulin antibodies signal autoimmune thyroid conditions.

In some cases, symptoms may appear long before abnormalities show up in lab tests, making thorough evaluation crucial.

Common Thyroid Disorders

1. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: The immune system attacks the thyroid, leading to underactivity.
2. Graves’ Disease: An overactive thyroid condition that can lead to symptoms like rapid heartbeat, anxiety, insomnia, and weight loss.
3. Thyroid Storm: A sudden, severe increase in thyroid hormone production, often triggered by stress, surgery, or childbirth.
4. Goiter: Enlargement of the thyroid, often caused by iodine deficiency.

Managing Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s

Dr. Veronesi suggests several strategies for managing thyroid issues, particularly autoimmune-related hypothyroidism:

• Dietary changes: A grain-free and dairy-free diet can help reduce immune system stress.
• Gut healing: Using probiotics and bone broth to repair gut health.
• Supplements: Omega-3s, selenium, magnesium, vitamin D, and B vitamins support thyroid health.
• Iodine supplementation: Applied cautiously, especially in cases of autoimmunity.
• Avoiding fluoride and bromine: These elements can displace iodine, impacting thyroid function. Common sources include tap water, toothpaste, and processed baked goods.
• Natural remedies: Lemongrass essential oil diluted in coconut oil can reduce inflammation when applied to the neck.

Managing Hyperthyroidism and Graves’ Disease

For those dealing with an overactive thyroid, such as in Graves’ disease, the focus is on calming the immune system and controlling hormone overproduction:

• Natural herbs: Lemon balm and bugleweed can help reduce excess thyroid activity.
• Conventional treatments: Often include radioactive iodine therapy or surgical removal of the thyroid, resulting in a need for lifelong medication.
• Caution with iodine: In cases of hyperthyroidism, supplementing with iodine can worsen symptoms.

Thyroid Testing and Iodine Deficiency

Dr. Veronesi recommends testing for iodine deficiency through:

• Urine tests: A reliable method to measure iodine levels.
• Skin patch test: Applying liquid iodine on the skin and observing how quickly it absorbs can provide a basic indication of deficiency.

If iodine levels are low, supplementation should start slowly, particularly for those with autoimmune conditions, to prevent triggering immune flare-ups.

Key Takeaways for Thyroid Health

• Regular testing and monitoring are essential, especially for those with persistent symptoms.
• Lifestyle changes like dietary adjustments and reducing exposure to toxins can significantly impact thyroid health.
• Early intervention can prevent long-term complications and improve quality of life.

If you suspect thyroid dysfunction, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for comprehensive testing and personalized treatment options.