thyroid doctor royal oak

Underlying Factors that Can Cause Thyroid Disease

Doctors Explain What Causes Thyroid Disease

When it comes to thyroid health, understanding the root causes of any dysfunction, or symptoms is crucial for effective treatment and long-term wellness. In Royal Oak, Dr. Nishath Hakim helps patients seeking a comprehensive approach to thyroid issues with a comprehensive functional medicine approach.

Unlike traditional medical approach taken by many doctors that often focus solely on managing symptoms, functional medicine delves deeper. Functional medicine doctors like Dr. Nishath Hakim in Royal Oak explore the underlying factors that contribute to thyroid disease – so that it can be successful treated and, in some cases, even reversed!

A thyroid doctor who practices functional medicine looks at the patient as a whole, considering not just the obvious symptoms but also the subtle signs and potential triggers that may be affecting thyroid function. This holistic approach allows for a more thorough understanding of each patient’s unique situation, paving the way for personalized treatment plans that address the root causes of thyroid dysfunction – for effective long-term results.

Thyroid Doctor’s Functional Medicine Approach

Recognizing the symptoms of thyroid disease is the first step in addressing this complex condition. A skilled thyroid doctor understands that these symptoms can be wide-ranging and sometimes subtle, affecting various aspects of a patient’s health and well-being. Common signs of thyroid dysfunction include fatigue, weight gain, mood swings, hair loss, sleep problems, and changes in heart rate. However, these symptoms can often mimic other conditions, making accurate diagnosis challenging.

In many cases, traditional doctors often misdiagnose thyroid disease – instead blaming the symptoms on menopause, stress, or other causes.

However, a thyroid doctor who takes a functional medicine approach will not only note the obvious signs but also look for less common indicators that might be overlooked in a standard medical examination. This comprehensive view allows for a more accurate assessment of thyroid function and its impact on overall health.

Functional medicine thyroid doctors also conduct comprehensive blood tests that go beyond the standard THS thyroid blood test conducted by most doctors. Dr. Hakim will also test thyroid hormone levels of Total T4, Free T4, Free T3, and Reverse T3, combined with other diagnostic and nutritional testing, to develop a comprehensive diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan.

Additionally, many doctors simply prescribe a “standard dose” of a synthetic, lab-created hormone called Synthroid. But functional medicine thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim, MD will customize an individualized treatment plan just for you – based on your specific thyroid levels and other underlying conditions or causes of your symptoms.

Why Thyroid Disease is Often Misdiagnosed by Traditional Doctors

Thyroid disease is notoriously challenging to diagnose, often leading to missed or incorrect diagnoses. One reason for this is the wide range of symptoms that can be attributed to other conditions. A traditional thyroid doctor might focus solely on standard thyroid function tests, which don’t always tell the whole story. These tests typically measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, but they may not capture the full picture of thyroid health.

Functional medicine practitioners, including specialized thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim in Royal Oak, recognize the limitations of standard testing. They often employ a more comprehensive panel of tests, looking at not just TSH but also free T3, free T4, reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies. This broader approach helps identify thyroid issues that might be missed by conventional testing, leading to more accurate diagnoses and targeted treatment plans.

Early Diagnosis of Thyroid Disease

Early diagnosis of thyroid disease is crucial for preventing long-term complications. Left untreated, thyroid dysfunction can lead to more severe health problems, including cardiovascular issues, osteoporosis, and mental health disorders. A skilled thyroid doctor like Dr. Nishath Hakim in Royal Oak understands that addressing thyroid issues in their early stages can significantly impact a patient’s overall health and quality of life.

By employing advanced testing methods and considering a wide range of symptoms, functional medicine thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak understands that addressing thyroid issues in their early stages can significantly impact a patient’s overall health and quality of life. With her holistic functional medicine approach, she can often identify thyroid issues before they progress to more serious stages. This proactive approach not only helps prevent long-term complications but also allows for more effective and less invasive treatment options.
One way Dr. Hakim successfully addresses and treats thyroid disease is by identifying the underlying cause or triggers of their condition.

Thyroid Doctors Discuss Underlying Causes of Thyroid Disease

Understanding the underlying causes of thyroid disease is at the heart of the functional medicine approach. Knowledgeable thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak recognizes that thyroid dysfunction rarely occurs in isolation; it’s often the result of complex interactions between various factors. By identifying and addressing these root causes, she can develop more effective and lasting treatment plans.

Genetic Factors & Thyroid Disease

Genetic factors play a significant role in thyroid health. Experienced thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim will consider a patient’s family history and genetic predisposition to thyroid issues. While we can’t change our genes, understanding genetic risk factors allows for targeted preventive measures and early intervention strategies.

Environmental Factors & Thyroid Disease

Environmental factors can also contribute significantly to thyroid health. Exposure to toxins, pollutants, and certain chemicals can disrupt thyroid function.
Exposure to excessive levels of iodide / iodine can result in thyroid disease. Cold and sinus medications, heart medicine (amiodarone), contrast dyes before X-rays are all common causes of iodine exposure. The drug lithium has also been determined to be a contributing cause of hypothyroidism.

Exposure to other toxins and chemicals, such as fluoride and many others, can also cause damage to the thyroid – contributing to an autoimmune attack on the thyroid gland. Many processed foods, some skincare products and make-up, and certain medications may all contain toxins that can contribute to thyroid damage.

Thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim in Royal Oak will investigate the patient’s environmental exposures, considering factors such as workplace conditions, home environment, and lifestyle habits that could impact thyroid health.

Nutritional Factors & Thyroid Disease

Nutritional deficiencies are another critical factor in thyroid health. Essential nutrients such as iodine, selenium, zinc, and vitamin D play crucial roles in thyroid function.

A thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak can conduct comprehensive nutritional assessments to identify any deficiencies that could be contributing to thyroid dysfunction. Addressing these nutritional gaps through dietary changes or targeted supplementation can significantly improve thyroid health in many cases.

Hormonal Factors & Thyroid Disease

Hormonal imbalances can also have a profound impact on thyroid function. For instance, imbalances in cortisol (the stress hormone) or sex hormones can affect thyroid function. By addressing these hormonal imbalances, a thyroid doctor can often improve overall thyroid health.

Statistics reveal that’s almost all autoimmune conditions, including thyroid disease, have a much higher incidence in females than in males. This is likely because the female sex hormones estrogen and prolactin play an crucial role in modulating the immune system.

Scientists have suspected that female hormones may play an essential role in the development of autoimmune thyroid conditions – because the most common onset times for thyroid disease to occur in women are during hormonal periods such as puberty, pregnancy and peri-menopause.

Functional medicine thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim understands the intricate connections between various hormonal systems in the body. She is skilled and experienced in testing for, diagnosing, and treating hormone imbalances in women and men that may contribute to thyroid disease and a wide variety of other conditions and symptoms.

Bacterial & Viral Triggers for Thyroid Disease

Emerging research has highlighted the role of bacterial and viral infections in triggering or exacerbating thyroid disease. Functional medicine thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim, MD will consider these potential triggers when evaluating a patient’s thyroid health. Certain infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus or Helicobacter pylori, have been linked to autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

By identifying and addressing underlying chronic infections, a functional medicine thyroid doctor like Nishath Hakim, MD can often improve thyroid function and overall health outcomes.

Thyroid Doctor | Royal Oak

When it comes to thyroid health, a comprehensive, root-cause approach can make all the difference. In Royal Oak, Dr. Nishath Hakim at Prosperity Health employs this functional medicine approach, offering patients a thorough and personalized approach to thyroid care.

As a dedicated thyroid doctor, Dr. Hakim doesn’t just treat symptoms – she investigates and addresses the underlying factors that contribute to thyroid dysfunction. This leads to more effective treatments that not only alleviate symptoms but helps prevent long term disease and complications related to thyroid dysfunction.

If you’re experiencing symptoms that might be related to thyroid issues, or if you’re looking for a more comprehensive approach to your thyroid health, schedule an appointment at Prosperity Health today. Dr. Hakim’s expertise as a thyroid doctor, combined with her compassionate care and commitment to functional medicine principles, can provide you with the diagnosis and treatment you need for optimal thyroid health.

Don’t let thyroid issues hold you back from living your best life. Take the first step towards comprehensive thyroid care by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Hakim today. Your journey to better thyroid health and overall wellness starts at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, with thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim.

Royal Oak Thyroid Doctor: 248.997.4242

thyroid doctor royal oak

How Thyroid Doctors Diagnose Thyroid Disease that Others Miss

How Thyroid Doctors Use Blood Tests for Diagnosis

The thyroid affects almost every function of the body – from energy, to cognition, to sexual health. The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s metabolic rate, influencing all cellular processes. Yet, despite its importance, thyroid dysfunction often goes undiagnosed by many doctors.

Tragically, because of thyroid disease’s wide-ranging symptoms, it is often missed or misdiagnosed by doctors who do not specialize in thyroid disorders. Thyroid disease affects one in five women and one in ten men – yet many people are unaware they have a thyroid problem. Many conventional doctors do not utilize extensive thyroid hormone blood work. But functional medicine doctors like Dr. Hakim in Royal Oak, consider the patient’s “complete picture”, ensuring a thorough evaluation for thyroid disorders through advanced diagnostics including extensive bloodwork.

At Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, functional medicine doctor Nishath Hakim, MD specializes in diagnosing thyroid disease through comprehensive blood testing. In this article she shares how experienced thyroid doctors use extensive blood testing to accurately identify thyroid disease – so it can be properly and promptly treated.

Symptoms of Hypo (Low) Thyroid

Hypothyroidism, or low thyroid function, can manifest through a variety of symptoms, many of which can be mistaken for other conditions. This is why skilled thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak believes it is essential to monitor thyroid hormone levels regularly through blood testing.

Common signs of hypothyroidism include weight gain or difficulty losing weight, cold hands and feet, depression, memory issues, low libido, hair loss, and fatigue. Other symptoms may include brittle hair and nails, dry skin, constipation, persistent tiredness, trouble waking up in the morning, and brain fog. These symptoms suggest the need for a thyroid panel to assess if the thyroid gland is not producing adequate hormones.

Early detection and treatment by a knowledgeable thyroid doctor like Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected with hypothyroidism. Thyroid hormone blood testing is a crucial step in identifying the existence, as well as the type and underlying cause, of a hypoactive thyroid.

Symptoms of Hyper (High) Thyroid

Conversely, hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, can cause symptoms such as rapid weight loss, increased appetite, anxiety, irritability, tremors, heat intolerance, and excessive sweating. Patients may also experience a rapid or irregular heartbeat, difficulty sleeping, and muscle weakness.

These symptoms indicate that the thyroid is producing too much hormone, accelerating the body’s metabolism. Many physicians who aren’t specialized thyroid doctors misdiagnose the cause of these varied symptoms. Proper diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications associated with hyperthyroidism.

Skilled thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak offers comprehensive thyroid hormone blood testing to identify and treat the underlying cause(s) of a hyperactive thyroid.

The Blood Tests Thyroid Doctors Use

Most conventional doctors only perform basic thyroid function tests, but a specialized thyroid doctor like Dr. Nishath Hakim will order a complete set of blood tests for a comprehensive thyroid evaluation. These include the following.

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

This is the most commonly run test to check for thyroid disease. It measures the level of TSH in the blood, which signals the thyroid gland to produce hormones. The optimal range is typically 1.0-2.0 μIU/mL.

Free T3 (FT3)

FT3 is the active thyroid hormone that exerts its effects on the body’s cells, influencing energy production, hormone regulation, and bowel movements. The optimal range is 3.2-4.4 pg/mL.

Free T4 (FT4)

T4 is the predominant hormone produced by the thyroid gland and must be converted to FT3 to be active. If FT4 is normal but FT3 is low, it indicates a conversion issue that might require thyroid hormone supplementation. The optimal range is 1-1.5 ng/dL.

Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPO antibodies)

TPO antibodies are markers for autoimmune hypothyroidism, also known as Hashimoto’s disease. It is important to distinguish between autoimmune and non-autoimmune hypothyroidism for appropriate treatment. The optimal range is 0 IU/mL.

Anti-Thyroglobulin Antibodies

This is another marker for autoimmune thyroid disorders, particularly Hashimoto’s disease. The optimal range is 0 IU/mL.

Reverse T3

Reverse T3 acts as a braking system, inhibiting thyroid hormone production. High levels can indicate issues such as toxins, stress, or inflammation, affecting thyroid efficiency. The normal range is 9.2-24.1 ng/dL.

How Thyroid Doctors Treat Thyroid Problems

Treatment for thyroid disorders is highly individualized. Experienced thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak may recommend compounded thyroid hormone replacement, tailored to each patient’s specific needs. This involves customizing the amount of T3 and T4 based on bloodwork results, often using sustained-release formulations for long-acting support throughout the day.

This personalized approach by thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak ensures optimal thyroid hormone levels – which not only alleviates symptoms effectively but also helps reduce the risk of dangerous or even deadly complications of thyroid disease.

Top Thyroid Doctor | Royal Oak

Functional medicine doctors like Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak look at the patient’s health as a whole to find and treat the root cause of disease – rather than simply treating symptoms. This includes accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of thyroid disease through the use of comprehensive blood testing. At Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, skilled thyroid doctor Nishath Hakim, MD offers expert evaluation and management of thyroid conditions, helping patients achieve optimal health and well-being.

If you are suffering from unexplained symptoms, or you suspect thyroid issues, and you want a thorough evaluation, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hakim Nishath Hakim, MD in Royal Oak. She will get to the root of your health problems, so you can explore the best treatment options tailored to your needs. Call us today and take the first step to restoring your vitality and well-being now and for decades to come.

Thyroid Doctor | Royal Oak: 248-997-4242