Hypothyroidism

Anti-Aging by the Sea

Cynthia N. Frazier, MD

Wellness Center located in Southport, NC

Hypothyroidism is a common issue among Southport, North Carolina residents today. When the thyroid isn't functioning properly, it can result in sluggish metabolism, weight gain, and overall feeling of lethargy. Dr. Cynthia Frazier at Anti-Aging by the Sea offers customized thyroid optimization that can help patients feel and look better.

Hypothyroidism Q & A

What is hypothyroidism?

People who suffer from hypothyroidism don't produce enough of the thyroid hormone, thyroxine. Because the primary role of this hormone is regulation of the metabolism, most people who have hypothyroidism will have a variety of symptoms connected with slow metabolism.

What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?

Weight gain or a struggle to lose extra weight is one of the most common hypothyroidism symptoms. Other symptoms may include:

  • Chronic fatigue
  • Muscle weakness
  • Dry skin
  • Dry and brittle hair
  • Hair loss
  • Depressed mood
  • Constipation
  • Memory problems
  • Lack of libido
  • Erratic menstrual cycles

Most people who suffer from hypothyroidism have at least a few of these symptoms at one time, but each case is unique.

How are patients tested for hypothyroidism?

Blood tests are typically done to check for hypothyroidism. A complete thyroid panel tests for TSH, total T4, free T4, free T3, and thyroid antibodies. The T4 test checks thyroxine levels and the T3 test checks triiodothyronine levels. Additional tests can be ordered if needed.

Why does hypothyroidism occur?

Thyroid inflammation known as, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is the most frequent cause of hypothyroidism.

Groups of people with an increased risk for hypothyroidism include:

  • Women over the age of 50
  • People with type I diabetes
  • People with rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune diseases have higher risks

In some cases, the reason that a person develops hypothyroidism isn't discovered. Regardless of the cause, replacement of the thyroid hormone can be a highly effective way to deal with this condition.

How is hypothyroidism treated?

At Anti-Aging by the Sea, Dr. Cynthia Frazier recommends bio-identical hormone replacement. This type of treatment replenishes the missing hormones and allows the thyroid to function properly again. Every treatment plan is customized to the individual. With bio-identical hormone replacement, Dr. Frazier will evaluate the effects of the replacement hormones with you on a regular basis until the ideal dosage is found. Bio-identical hormones are derived from plants and are the most natural type of hormone replacement available today.