Thyroid Disorders

The thyroid is an essential part of hormone production and regulation that helps maintain your weight, body temperature, mood, and other critical functions. Integrative medicine specialist Michelle Sandwisch, ARNP, FNP-C, offers extensive experience in treating thyroid disorders at Origin Medicine in Tacoma, Washington. If you have signs of a hormone imbalance, Michelle can perform comprehensive testing to identify the cause and restore balance to your hormones. Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What are thyroid disorders?

Thyroid disorders are medical conditions that affect the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck. The thyroid gland plays a vital role in producing and regulating thyroid hormones, which help control metabolism, digestion, temperature growth, and many other bodily functions.

Any condition that affects the thyroid can disrupt hormone production and regulation. Timely diagnosis, proper management, and personalized treatment plans are crucial for effectively addressing thyroid disorders and maintaining optimal thyroid function.

Are there different types of thyroid disorders?

Many types of thyroid disorders exist, but the most common are:

Hyperthyroidism

When the thyroid gland is hyperactive, it produces too many hormones. Excess sweating, weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and nervousness are telltale signs of this condition.

Hypothyroidism

An underactive thyroid leads to insufficient hormone production. Fatigue, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold temperatures are common signs of hypothyroidism, the most common thyroid disorder.

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

This autoimmune disorder develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing chronic inflammation and gradual thyroid damage that eventually leads to hypothyroidism.

How can functional medicine treat thyroid disorders?

Michelle takes a holistic approach to care that focuses on addressing your thyroid disorder’s underlying cause. She uses a multi-step system to diagnose and treat thyroid and adrenal disorders:

Step 1 - Gather information

Michelle uses the LivingMatrix™ online assessment tool to update information about your medical history and establish your health baseline.

Step 2 - Initial assessment

Using the information from your online assessment, Michelle schedules a 1-2 hour consultation to discuss your health needs and priorities.

Step 3 - Lab testing

Lab work tests your hormone levels and adrenal function to determine your exact imbalance and create an appropriate treatment plan.

Step 4 - Review plan

Your personalized plan may include nutritional supplements, dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, prescription medications, and stress reduction techniques to balance your hormone levels.

Step 5 - Monitor results

Michelle may recommend monthly visits to ensure your plan is working. She can make adjustments to your plan and order new lab work as needed.

Step 6 - Maintenance 

Your personalized care program with Michelle can evolve. She recommends returning to Origin Medicine at least once a year to assess your health and hormone function to ensure your plan continues to meet your needs.

Call Origin Medicine today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about effectively managing thyroid disorders.