Hidden Hypothyroidism: How Undiagnosed Thyroid Disorders Can Affect Your Health

This guest article is by Lisa Brent, ND, LAc. Lisa is a naturopathic doctor specializing in women’s health and integrative gynecology at the Owning Pink Center in Mill Valley, CA.

It is not uncommon for a patient to come in to my office with all of the signs and symptoms of low thyroid function and to tell me that her recent blood tests had “come back normal”. While there are many medical explanations for some of the most common indications of a thyroid disorder—weight gain, hair loss, fatigue, etc.--it is also possible that the gland is not working optimally even without laboratory evidence.

The Problem
As many as 27 million Americans may have some type of thyroid disorder. Of that number, approximately half remain undiagnosed. The consequences of untreated thyroid dysfunction can be serious. For example, a recent study showed that individuals with “subclinical” hypothyroidism (low thyroid function that does not show up on lab tests) demonstrated a 41% increase in relative mortality from all causes versus people with normal thyroid function.

Where is the thyroid?
The thyroid gland is located just below your "Adams apple" or larynx. It is a small gland, normally weighing less than one ounce, but it has a big job. The thyroid hormones are responsible for regulating metabolism in every cell in the body.

Signs and Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
The most common symptoms of hypothyroidism are fatigue, weakness, constipation, weight gain, sluggishness, cold extremities, intolerance to cold, hoarse voice, muscle aches, headache, decreased libido, depression, poor concentration, thinning hair, memory loss and painful joints.

Some of the signs that might be observed upon physical examination include dry skin, mid-body obesity, thinning hair, pale skin, goiter, delayed Achilles reflex, low basal body temperature, changes in laboratory values (but not necessarily) and a scalloped tongue.

There are many possible causes and contributing factors to hypothyroidism. Some of the most common are autoimmune destruction, lack of production of hormone by the thyroid gland, chronic or acute stress, overdose of thyroid hormone, age, poor nutrition, environmental toxins, inadequate metabolism or conversion of the hormone in the cells, low levels of vitamin D, low iodine intake, smoking, poor digestion, medications and many more.

How is hypothyroidism best diagnosed?
Blood tests can be helpful if the thyroid levels are markedly outside the range of normal. However, even without these tests a medical practitioner should be able to determine whether or not the thyroid gland is acting optimally. A thorough discussion of symptoms and medical history as well as a physical examination can provide valuable information. Charting daily basal body temperature at home can provide good information. There are also saliva tests available that often show more detailed data than a blood test can provide.

The Solutions
Once it is determined that the thyroid gland needs help, there are a number of ways to go about it. One of the most helpful lifestyle changes a person with thyroid issues can make is in their diet. A gluten-free, protein-rich, organic diet will really help to support healthy thyroid function. Regular aerobic exercise is also essential. There are several herbs and supplements such as tyrosine, vitamin D, iodine, fish oils, ashwaganda and others that can be very helpful to improve thyroid health. As always, it is best to consult a medical practitioner before embarking upon a new supplement regimen.

Healthy thyroid function is essential for almost every metabolic function in the body. If you have reason to believe yours is not working optimally, it makes sense to do some further investigating. Your body will thank you!

Lisa Brent, ND, LAc is a naturopathic doctor and licensed acupuncturist with a private practice in Mill Valley. She is also Director of Integrative Wellness for Laurel Fertility Care. She can be reached at drlisabrent@gmail.com.