Someprimary care providersand complementary medicine providers also diagnose and treat hypothyroidism.
This article explains hypothyroidism, its symptoms, and the healthcare providers who treat it.
When Should You Get Your Thyroid Checked?
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Thyroid function depends greatly onthyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)released from thepituitary gland.
Several types of healthcare providers can play a role in managing thyroid disease and its symptoms.
Most primary care providers are comfortable monitoring TSH levels and adjustingthyroid hormone replacement medicationaccordingly.
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Alternatively, your endocrinologist and primary care provider may work together to manage your condition.
Primary Care vs.
This specialist can test your thyroid hormone levels and potentially prescribe thyroid medications.
Other naturopathic and chiropractic providers can also complement your thyroidologist to round out your treatment.
Thyroidologist
Endocrinologists who get extra training and specialize in thyroid disorders are called thyroidologists.
Team Treatment
Your endocrinologist or thyroidologist may work with your primary care doctor to manage your condition.
Naturopathic Doctors
A licensed naturopathic doctor (ND) graduates from a four-year graduate-level holistic medical school.
Some NDs practice botanical medicine, recommending herbs for the care of various medical problems.
The standard medical approach to hypothyroidism is a synthetic form of T4.
Many NDs instead prescribedesiccated thyroid hormonefor hypothyroidism.
This product is derived from the dried thyroid glands of pigs or cows and provides both T4 and T3.
However, some studies find the use of desiccated thyroid extract offers benefits in some cases.
Other Names for Desiccated Thyroid
Brand names include Nature-throid and Armour Thyroid.
Chiropractors can order laboratory tests and imaging, but they can’t prescribe medication.
That’s especially true if you face limitations due to geography and insurance.
With advancements in telehealth, though, you may be able to find a specialist to consult with long-distance.
You also have access to resources, such as theonline ATA database.
It can help you to locate a board-certified endocrinologist or thyroidologist in your area.
It includes information about diabetes care and other hypothyroidism-related specialties.
Summary
Hypothyroidism is a thyroid disorder in which you have low thyroid function.
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