Your thyroid is a small endocrine gland in your neck that is involved in nearly every aspect of your health, from energy levels and body temperature to heart rate and brain function. It performs these tasks by producing hormones, and these thyroid hormone levels can affect how you feel and function on a daily basis. Keep reading to learn more about how to know if your thyroid hormone production is off and what to do about it!
What are thyroid hormones?
The thyroid gland is responsible for several hormone functions, including the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3). They work in a sort of thermostat system: TSH is produced by the pituitary gland to signal the thyroid to produce more hormones. When your TSH levels are high, it could mean that your thyroid is underperforming and not releasing enough T4 and T3. If your TSH levels are too low, it could mean that your thyroid is producing too much T4 and T3, and your pituitary gland has stopped making TSH in an attempt to stop signaling your thyroid to make more hormones. To make it a little less confusing, here is a more simple way of looking at thyroid hormone levels:
High TSH & Low T4 & T3 could indicate hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
Low TSH & High T4 & T3 could indicate hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
Symptoms of an Underactive Thyroid:
Hypothyroidism is common and can be caused by inflammation of the thyroid (thyroiditis), hereditary low thyroid, an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s, and more. You may also face a greater risk of thyroid problems if you have diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or anemia. Here are a few common signs of low thyroid:
- fatigue
- weight gain
- sensitivity to cold
- joint and muscle pain
- dry, itchy skin
- dry, thinning hair
- heavy or irregular menstrual periods
- slowed heart rate
Symptoms of an Overactive Thyroid:
Hyperthyroidism can also be caused by a number of factors, from family history to age. You may have thyroiditis, overactive thyroid nodules, or Grave’s disease, a common autoimmune disorder. Here are some common signs of high thyroid hormone levels:
- unexplained weight loss
- rapid or irregular heartbeat
- insomnia
- shaky hands, tremors
- muscle weakness
- sensitivity to heat
- frequent bowel movements
- a goiter (enlarged thyroid gland)
How can our local pharmacy help?
Our team of pharmacists is more than happy to answer any questions you may have about thyroid health. We offer comprehensive BHRT testing and treatment options that include a full thyroid blood panel. Women, in particular, are susceptible to thyroid hormone imbalances, and we have the knowledge and expertise to get you back to feeling like yourself again. As a compounding pharmacy, we make custom formulations to ensure you are getting the most effective dose!
Another option that you may benefit from is a nutritional supplement. We have a variety of pharmaceutical-grade products available in our online supplement store. For thyroid support, we can recommend Thyro Health 150, a formula that includes L-tyrosine, herbal ingredients, and bovine nutrients (BSE-free) for optimal thyroid hormone production.
Learn more about our compounding pharmacy services, and ask us about how our customized hormone therapy could help balance your thyroid hormone levels!
