Hypothyroidism Specialist

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, happens when your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that’s an important part of your endocrine system because thyroid hormones influence nearly all of your body’s organs.

When the thyroid produces an insufficient amount of hormones, many of your body’s core functions — such as metabolism and heart rate — slow down.

Who gets hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a common condition, affecting about 4.6% of the US population. Anyone can develop hypothyroidism, but this disease is more common among women and adults over age 60.

Certain factors may increase your risk of getting hypothyroidism, such as:

• History of another thyroid problem, such as a goiter
• Recent pregnancy in the past six months
• A family history of thyroid disease
• Radiation treatment of the thyroid, neck, or chest
• Other health problems, including anemia and rheumatoid arthritis

An autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto’s disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. Other possible causes of this condition include thyroiditis and certain medications, such as lithium or amiodarone.

What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism symptoms vary from person to person. You may have hypothyroidism if you experience one or more of these common signs and symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Dry skin
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Depression
• Constipation
• A puffy face
• Joint and muscle pain
• Dry, thinning hair
• Infertility
• Slowed heart rate
• Irregular menstrual periods

Since hypothyroidism develops gradually, many people don’t notice symptoms for several months or even years.

How do you diagnose and treat hypothyroidism?

Dr. Khedia begins with a thorough physical exam and review of your medical history. If he suspects you have hypothyroidism, he may take blood tests to check your thyroid hormone levels.

Then, he recommends the best possible treatment for your particular condition. Hypothyroidism treatment typically involves taking synthetic hormones orally every day.

Alternatively, Dr. Khedia may recommend bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) with BioTE® hormone pellets. He inserts these custom-compounded pellets beneath your skin, where they release hormones continuously.

For friendly and professional hypothyroidism treatment, call the office of Sanjay Khedia, MD, or book an appointment online.