What is the treatment for Hashimoto’s when your TSH is normal? ⎸ Ep. 224
Health with Hashimoto’s - Thyroid or Immune Education for Autoimmune Thyroid DiseaseSummary
Hashimoto's thyroiditis is a condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid, leading to inflammation and various symptoms. Many patients face challenges when their TSH levels are deemed normal, despite having elevated thyroid antibodies. This situation often leaves individuals without clear treatment options, as conventional medical advice may focus solely on TSH levels rather than addressing the underlying autoimmune aspect of the disease.
Patients diagnosed with Hashimoto's may receive a prescription for medication like levothyroxine if their TSH is abnormal, but those with normal TSH levels might only be monitored without further intervention. This can be frustrating for patients who still experience symptoms. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding that Hashimoto's involves both thyroid dysfunction and an immune response, suggesting that patients take an active role in managing their health.
Esther Yunkin, a registered nurse with extensive experience, encourages individuals to advocate for themselves and explore treatment options beyond medication. She highlights the need for patients to address the immune system's role in Hashimoto's and offers resources, including a list of questions to ask healthcare providers and a guide to understanding the condition better. These tools aim to empower patients to take control of their health journey.
Show Notes
Your doctor says you have Hashimoto’s, but your TSH is “fine.” So what now? If you left with a follow-up appointment 12 months away, or a “we’ll keep an eye on it,” you’re not alone. A normal TSH only tells part of the story. Hashimoto’s is two things: a thyroid that can’t keep up and an immune system that’s attacking it. TSH shows the first. It doesn’t show the second. In episode 224, Esther explains the treatment for Hashimoto’s with normal TSH, and why you don’t have to wait for your labs to change before you start supporting your body. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why a normal TSH doesn’t tell you what your immune system is doing How to tell if your TSH is normal for a sick population or actually normal One simple breathing habit that helps your nervous system shift from fight and flight into rest and digest
Hit play and find your next step today.
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Free 10 Questions to Ask Your Provider (PDF): https://healthwithhashimotos.com/questions-for-your-doctor/ A printable guide to bring to your next appointment. Hashimoto’s Decoded ($27): https://healthwithhashimotos.com/hashimotos-decoded/ A mini-course that helps you sort your Hashimoto’s into thyroid or immune.
JOIN THE HEALTH WITH HASHIMOTO’S COMMUNITY Unlock your wellness journey with the free Health with Hashimoto’s community! Join a supportive community that’s here for you every step of the way. The Health with Hashimoto’s community is on Skool: https://www.skool.com/health-with-hashimotos/about Find all links on my resource page: https://healthwithhashimotos.com/resources/
ABOUT THE PODCAST & ESTHER: The Health with Hashimoto’s podcast will help you explore the root causes of your autoimmune condition and discover holistic solutions to address your Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. It is hosted by Esther Yunkin, a registered nurse, holistic health educator, and Hashimoto’s warrior. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes. Please discuss any questions or concerns with your healthcare professional. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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