What to Look for in a Thyroid Doctor to Start Feeling Better

What to Look for in a Thyroid Doctor to Start Feeling Better

Does it feel like your current thyroid treatment isn’t working?

Have you been reading a lot about your thyroid but now you are more confused?

If you fall into these categories then the answer may be to find the right thyroid doctor. 

There is no substitute for an experienced physician who understands the importance of thyroid function and who can guide you through your symptoms, treatment, and recovery

The difficult part is finding the “right” thyroid doctor and finding one who can put everything together. 

In this guide I will walk you through some tips and tricks designed to help you find a good thyroid doctor to help you on your path to recovery:

Dealing with Thyroid Problems?

Thyroid problems include disease states such as Hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid), Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer

Why is it that so many patients are unhappy with their current thyroid treatment?

We don’t have to look far to see that this is the case:

Entire websites are dedicated to helping you understand thyroid function and to help you be an advocate for your own health. 

There are hundreds of stories of patients who relate their encounters and experience in switching doctors or medications or therapies who then get their life back. 

Why is this the case?

Some of this may have to do with the current understanding and treatment of thyroid disease states. 

The prevailing conventional thought is that thyroid disease is easily treated, that the treatment is essentially the same for all patients, and that if you continue to experience symptoms despite following this treatment that those symptoms must be related to some other cause such as depression or anxiety

There are a lot of good reasons to believe that this approach to thyroid treatment is not accurate and that taking a more personalized approach to thyroid management leads to optimal and better results

You can read more about the role genetic, environmental, and other factors play on thyroid function in this post

It seems, though, that the only doctors who take this approach tend to be those who fall into the integrative, holistic or functional group. 

The reality is that most patients follow the conventional route of care which means that they tend to see Endocrinologists and Family practice doctors who then manage their thyroid. 

And this may not be a problem for many patients. 

But for those who do not respond to this typical treatment paradigm, it can be a big problem and dramatically alter their quality of life. 

So how do you go about finding a “good” thyroid doctor? 

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What makes a Thyroid Doctor “Good”

I’ve created a list of attributes that you may want to look for when determining which kind of doctor to see. 

One of the most important aspects to consider when looking for a doctor is to find one that is willing to try and work with you. 

If you find that your doctor is unwilling to listen to your concerns or explore other options then it may be time to seek out a second opinion. 

It’s not worth wasting your time trying to educate your physician on what you’ve read on the internet – this approach will never work!

Instead, spend your time and energy finding someone who will actually work with you. 

#1. Willingness to Explore Medications Outside of Levothyroxine

The first, and probably most important, point on the list is the willingness to explore medications outside of Levothyroxine. 

It may actually come as a surprise to you that there are MANY different types of thyroid medications and they can be used with success in different circumstances. 

Levothyroxine represents a T4-only thyroid medication and it is the first line therapy when treating thyroid disease. 

The problem with T4 thyroid medication is that it simply may not work for every single person. 

Studies have shown that due to genetic factors some patients have difficulty with what is known as thyroid conversion (1).

Thyroid conversion is the process by which your body takes the T4 thyroid medication and “activates” it by turning it into the active thyroid hormone T3. 

Many patients, due to genetic SNP changes, may not efficiently utilize this process. 

For some patients that means that they may not be experiencing the beneficial effects of thyroid medication even though they take it faithfully. 

In addition to genetic factors, there are also other anatomical issues that may prevent this type of medication from working. 

One example is the issue of thyroid hormone absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. 

Some individuals simply do not absorb Levothyroxine or Synthroid as well as others (2) and may benefit from taking different formulations of thyroid hormone which are easier to digest. 

These are just some examples that explain why various patients don’t do well on conventional or typical thyroid medication. 

The hallmark of a good thyroid doctor is that they are willing to explore other thyroid medications.

These medications include: 

#2. Willingness to Order the Complete Thyroid Lab Test

In addition to using other medications, you want to make sure that your physician is willing to order more than just the conventional TSH and perhaps T4. 

The standard of care when treating thyroid dysfunction is to evaluate the function of the thyroid gland, and the effectiveness of thyroid medication with the use of the TSH test. 

TSH stands for Thyroid stimulating hormone and it is a hormone that is secreted from your pituitary gland

The evaluation of the TSH can be a helpful tool, but simply using this tool doesn’t allow for the evaluation of other important thyroid markers in the blood. 

Other markers that can help guide treatment include: 

  • Evaluation of Thyroid Conversion
  • Evaluation of free thyroid hormone concentration
  • Evaluation of thyroid autoantibodies
  • Consideration of nutrient deficiencies and their impact on thyroid function (Such as iodine, zinc, and selenium)

In order to evaluate these factors, you will need much more than just the TSH and standard free T4 level. 

The complete thyroid lab panel includes the following thyroid function tests:

These lab tests help you understand if your body is utilizing thyroid hormone effectively in your body, if the proper feedback loops are working properly and if thyroid hormone is making it to the target tissues and cells. 

While the TSH is important, it may be insufficient to fully understand what is happening in each person (though it should always be ordered). 

Finding a physician who is willing to order all of these tests (preferably without you asking) and also who is able to interpret these lab values will help you dramatically. 

#3. Understanding that All Patients are Different

Another important factor when dealing with a thyroid doctor has to do with their understanding of you as an individual. 

It may come as no surprise to you that you look, think and act differently than your neighbor. 

Why then should it come as a surprise to you that your treatment with thyroid hormone should be different from that same person?

We are each genetically unique and therefore require different treatments, therapies, medication doses, and so on

Doctors are well aware of these differences, especially when using conventional medications. 

For some reason, they seem to regress to a basic understanding of physiology whenever hormone therapy is involved. 

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This treatment paradigm has been boiled down to the idea that every person is treated in the same way with the same medication regardless of body type, weight, metabolic function, genetic factors, and so on. 

Make sure that your physician is willing to look into your personal history, learn more about your unique circumstances, and take into account these important factors when determining treatment for you. 

For instance:

It may not be wise to use Levothyroxine or Synthroid in patients who have a history of medication reactions or reactions to inactive fillers and dyes (3).

It may be wiser to use a medication such as Tirosint which has fewer inactive fillers and may, therefore, be better tolerated (4).

This type of logic and understanding should be expanded to other factors in your personal history. 

#4. Understanding of Other Hormone Systems

Is your doctor only focusing on thyroid function?

You should be thinking about your body (and hormone systems) as an intricate spider web. 

There isn’t a way to pull out a single spindle without altering the structure of the entire system. 

This concept holds true for hormonal systems in your body. 

Because of this, it’s also important that your doctor has an understanding of other hormones such as estrogen/progesterone balance, testosterone levels, cortisol function, and insulin/leptin

These hormones tend to become dysregulated in cases of thyroid dysfunction and may also need to be treated. 

In addition, some of these hormonal imbalances may result in symptoms that mimic hypothyroidism and may “muddy” the picture of your health. 

If you are in a situation in which treating your thyroid only provided some relief to your symptoms then you may need to be evaluated for these other hormones. 

#5. Understanding the Importance of Thyroid Antibodies

The presence of thyroid antibodies may be a clue that you have a condition known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. 

In many cases, the standard and conventional approach to this condition are to simply “watch and wait”. 

In this condition, your body creates antibodies that eventually destroy your thyroid gland and lead to reliance upon thyroid medication indefinitely. 

Many physicians ignore even testing for this condition because they feel that knowing it exists doesn’t change treatment or management. 

This may be a mistake for many reasons…

Thyroid antibodies can cause problems all on their own (even if they don’t interfere with thyroid function) and may increase your personal risk of developing certain cancers (5).

It’s also important to know if this condition exists because some lifestyle changes and therapies may be effective in reducing thyroid antibodies. 

Make sure that you find a physician who is willing to test for thyroid antibodies and who is willing to explore potential treatment options. 

If you have Hashimoto’s you can learn more about treating this condition here. 

How to Find a Good Doctor

It can be very difficult to find a physician who fits the criteria of a “good” doctor but it doesn’t mean that you should give up or stop looking. 

There are many resources, tips, and tricks that you can use to try and find one.

I’ve included some below that you may consider: 

  • Contact local compounding pharmacies and ask for a list of doctors that prescribe bio-identical hormones including T3 and NDT (you can also try local regular pharmacies)
  • Use doctor directories from Integrative and Functional medicine training centers
  • Look for doctors who write blog posts or who have written books on the subject
  • Use Facebook support groups for patient references
  • Contact advanced laboratory testing centers and ask for a list of doctors who utilize these tests
  • Call local offices and ask if the doctors prescribe NDT and/or T3 medications
  • Look for doctors who have certifications in anti-aging medicine, hormonal therapy, integrative medicine, and functional medicine

These may not seem like easy options but unfortunately, they are the only ones available. 

Why is it so hard to find a doctor who treats this way?

Much of the reason has to do with the training system that physicians undertake. 

All physicians are taught to treat pretty much the same way in medical school and residency and it’s only the physicians who take extra training who understand some of the concepts discussed here. 

This can make it difficult to find a good doctor because the training isn’t standardized. 

Because of this, the skill between practitioners varies even if they have both taken the same courses after their conventional training. 

Integrative & Functional (Holistic) Doctors

Should you switch to an integrative or functional doctor?

In many cases, this may be the preferred option, but some reasons may make the transition difficult.

Most of the time integrative and functional doctors operate outside of the insurance model which means that you will need to pay cash for visits. 

This can be difficult if funds are tight.

In addition, not all providers in this category have the same knowledge or skill. 

This may lead to you spending significant amounts of money and not getting the results you are looking for. 

To fight this you can stick to the guidelines listed above. 

In some cases, you may be able to find a physician who has an advanced mindset but that is also in the insurance model. 

These Doctors are not common, but it’s worth looking into.

Bottom Line: Integrative and functional medicine doctors are more likely to prescribe medications that contain T3 such as NDT and T3-only medications. These Doctors tend to operate outside of the insurance model and may cost more money than conventional physicians.  

Conventional Doctors (Endocrinologists)

Can you get help by using an endocrinologist?

The answer is maybe. 

The more unconventional your case is the less likely you are to get help from the conventional model. 

But if you fit the “standard” patient case then you will most likely have results with an endocrinologist. 

Just remember that endocrinologists, despite being hormone doctors, don’t really focus on bio-identical hormone replacement and they tend to all treat and evaluate the same way. 

This has to do with their training. 

Modern medicine is remarkable in the sense that training throughout the United States is quite standardized. 

This is good if you fit the “standard” but bad if you fall outside of it!

Endocrinologists tend to prescribe T4-only thyroid medications and are more resistant to prescribing medications that contain T3

You may have success in asking your doctor to switch T4 medications such as switching from levothyroxine to Tirosint. 

Bottom Line: Conventional endocrinologists may provide relief to those people who fit the “standard” thyroid treatment mold. Those with non-typical or advanced cases may do better with integrative physicians. 

Wrapping it up

When it comes to finding a Thyroid Doctor it’s worth spending time and energy researching and looking for the right person. 

There is nothing more important than your health and suffering for years trying to get your Doctor to understand your situation is probably not worth your time. 

I recommend looking for a thyroid doctor who is open to using various thyroid medications, who orders a complete thyroid lab panel, who understands your individual scenario, and who also evaluates your symptoms in the context of other hormones

Now I want to hear from you:

Do you have a great thyroid Doctor?

Are you still searching? 

What tips or tricks have you found to find a good doctor?

Share them below so that you can help others who are struggling! 

#1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3219766/

#2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6897778

#3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23377335

#4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4737508/

#5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5422478/

what to look for in a thyroid doctor

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About Dr. Westin Childs

Hey! I'm Westin Childs D.O. (former Osteopathic Physician). I don't practice medicine anymore and instead specialize in helping people like YOU who have thyroid problems, hormone imbalances, and weight loss resistance. I love to write and share what I've learned over the years. I also happen to formulate the best supplements on the market (well, at least in my opinion!) and I'm proud to say that over 80,000+ people have used them over the last 7 years. You can read more about my own personal health journey and why I am so passionate about what I do.

P.S. Here are 4 ways you can get more help right now:

#1. Get my free thyroid downloads, resources, and PDFs here.

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#3. Sign up to receive 20% off your first order.

#4. Follow me on Youtube, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram for up-to-date thyroid tips, tricks, videos, and more.

163 thoughts on “What to Look for in a Thyroid Doctor to Start Feeling Better”

      • Hi Dr
        Do you know of any good thyroid doctor in Phoenix,Az or any surrounding area? My thyroid function keeps changing almost every 1-2weeks.despite me being on Tyrosint , liothyronin ,Iodine and selenium.My symptomes of high and low thyroid functions are the same so I can’t make judgement on my own.I don’t have any anti bodies problem with my hypothyroidism and chronic fatigue.I feel awful and I can’t convince any doctor to do tests every 1-2weeks .Any idea what the problem could be or how to solve it?or any recommendations for any doctor in Arizona,New Mexico,California?

        Reply
        • I have heard of a couple of scenarios where a person has symptoms of both low and high thyroid at the same time. I am surprised that you found someone to prescribe you T3 but I imagine it is a relatively low dose. One possibility is that you have thyroid hormone resistance so your labs might not mean very much. You need a doctor who will concentrate on your symptoms. I have this cellular resistance problem and could not find anyone in Phoenix. I found a neuro-endocrinologist in NYC who has experience with this disorder, works with unusal cases, and does telemedicine. He doesn’t take insurance though. Check out his blog with case studies- Dr. Alan Jacobs. In the meantime, I am always looking for someone local for when Dr. Jacobs retires or I just need a backup.

          Reply
          • Hi Samantha,

            For the record, and for anyone else who may eventually read this, it’s impossible for the same tissue to be both hypothyroid and hyperthyroid. Some tissues can be overstimulated and others understimulated, which does occur, but the same tissue can’t be both.

          • I see Dr. Jacobs. I just find that he doesn’t test for diabetes though along with the ever increasing t3 doses that are raising my glucose! How do you feel so far?

          • I would love to meet others with the same issue though. Please reach out to me on Facebook! Chelsea Sims, Oklahoma City!

    • Firstly thank you, Dr Childs, for all your wonderful information on your website.
      Afrin, After 6 months of searching, I found a great Naturopath in Sydney. Her name is Frances Dalton. She has since moved to Byron Bay but comes back to Sydney for three days every 6 weeks.
      I am on an Iodine therapy now. Here are some links for you. A Facebook Iodine group https://www.facebook.com/groups/IodineWorkshop/
      and a link to a Dr Brownstein https://www.drbrownstein.com/
      If anyone else from Sydney or Australia is reading this please contact me through my website. (www.stephenconnor.org). I want to begin a worthwhile and informative conversation around the lack of thyroid knowledge and understanding here in Oz.

      Reply
  1. I covered pretty much everything in the other thyroid section. Like I said my doctor is a bioidenical doctor in Nashville and she has me pretty well covered except in November when I tried synthroid and cytomel, this will be my second office visit, so without any medication, I thought she should have seen me as soon as possible after she knew I couldn’t take synthroid or cytomel. Other than that and my anxiety and depression being over the top I guess I’ll see what she comes up with. Thank you. Can I contact you if I have any questions? I know you’re super busy but I feel like a second opinion. Please let me know.

    Reply
    • Hi Charlotte,

      Unfortunately I can’t give out medical advice in this setting, but you are certainly welcome to leave any general questions in the comment section and I will do my best to answer those.

      Reply
  2. Unfortunately, my Medicare plan is an HMO and I am stuck with doctors who are not open to new approaches to thyroid disorders. I am on a very fixed budget and cannot afford to go to doctors outside my HMO network. Every time I have tried to approach the subject of thyroid antibodies, I get brushed off the subject. None of the doctors I have seen are willing to discuss the subject of how or why antibodies are important or how to reduce them. I am exhausted fighting the system.
    I have stopped taking levothyroxin because I feel better when I don’t take it and I don’t trust my doctors knowledge of thyroid disease. I am placing my health in God’s hands and refuse to stress over it anymore.

    Reply
    • Hi Linda,

      I understand your frustration! I would say not to give up on finding a physician who is willing to help you because they can make all the difference. It’s also very important to be careful if you reduce your dose without supervision because this may make things much worse.

      Reply
    • Hi Linda / Dr Childs,

      Linda, I am in a similar predicament as you with insurance and with throwing in the towel. I’ve been studying hypothyroidism and trying to find help for 20 years, since I was diagnosed, and am simply tired of the fight. I also feel better without meds and at age 61 have decided enough is enough. Gonna let God take it from here, too.

      Maybe, if anyone cares, they’ll find out what was really wrong with me at my autopsy. Hope you are doing well, Linda, and thank you Dr. Childs for getting this info out there for others who still have a chance. God bless you both. With love.

      Reply
      • Hi Linda,

        You are welcome but don’t give up the fight! There are always options available and there are always ways to improve your current situation. I have plenty of free resources on this blog to help with just that! If you have any questions feel free to reach out to me via email.

        Reply
        • Hi Linda, Linda, and Dr. Childs,

          I, too, feel much better without the levothyroxine or Synthroid. Have no symptoms, and never had any, so the drugs take me from feeling great to feeling horrid!
          I quit cold turkey in 2010, and now, age 68, in a similar financial/insurance trap, I went to a new PCP who did new patient labs and insisted that I start taking Synthroid based on a high TSH. Referred me to an endo, and I hope he is satisfactory, but I’d really rather go outside of mainstream medicine. Gotta get out of this fast! I’m so glad I’m not the only one who finds these drugs seriously disagreeable. Why is the best only available to the rich?!

          Reply
          • Hi Brenda,

            You are always in control of whatever you put into your body and no doctor can force you to take a medication. If it’s not making you feel any better then it may not be worth taking!

  3. The better doctors I’ve visited tend to have been outside the insurance model, even those who are traditional (non-integrative) doctors. If lucky, they will at least file insurance on your behalf so you can get partial recompense.

    I’ve seen at least two rather good doctors, one found through a trustworthy compounding pharmacist — this one specializes in thyroid — and the second through my own search. I will say that I’ve used some of the knowledge obtained from these blogs to better tailor my care.

    Reply
    • Hi Maribelle,

      Thanks for sharing your experience! I definitely tend to agree that most of the better physicians tend to operate outside of the insurance model.

      Reply
  4. Hi I am very confused. I have been on thyroid meds for three years now, due to goida cyst and nodules on my thyroid. I have been overweight by about 20 lbs all my life even with vigilant exercise and for the most part healthy eating it has never changed. Recently I switched to Armour, with no different results, actually I am now 40lbs overweight, with menopause and constant muscle pain factored in. My dr keeps saying my numbers are fine, but I know something is off. I am at a loss. I live in the NYC area, any suggestions.

    Reply
    • Hi Louisa,
      I was on same med Armour hoping that it would help me with weight gain. I had never been overweight in my life until diagnosed with Hashimoto and hypo. Once on synthroid I started gaining. After reading article after article and my Dr saying numbers look fine….I asked to be put on Armour. No results. It wasn’t until I started Whole30 diet. I was sick of feeling sick. I passed the 30 days no problem and was by no means one of those stories of losing 20 lbs in a month. I might have lost 5 lbs. But I was feeling better. It wasn’t hard to follow so I just kept going. I had been following the Whole30 diet for about 4 months when I had a follow up with my endo. My blood work was now showing I was over medicated and she took me off my medication. I have past the 1 year mark and have lost 25 lbs and feel great. I’m not saying everyone will come off meds but what was found is Whole30 is close to the Thyroid diet. (I had no idea there was one) and it removes inflammatory foods from your diet. For me this was a lifesaver. What could it hurt to try it? Good Luck!

      Reply
    • Hi Louisa,
      Try Dr. Noel Maclaren in NYC. He is a less typical conventional endo and has helped me with very complex and debilitating autoimmune issues

      Reply
    • Hi, this may be of no use, but I used to see Dr. Gordon Skinner, who has now passed away, unfortunately, on a private basis in London, but he was the head of endocrinology at Birmingham Hospital, so I wonder if his amazing treatment approach may have rubbed off on colleagues who have now taken over? Good name to drop anyway….. best of luck, I’m hoping that by now you may have found somebody. Daniella, x

      Reply
  5. Still searching, but do have an appt with an Endocrinologist who has a reputation for being open minded- yay!! Keeping my finger crossed as Synthroid has done nothing for my Hashimotos and my Family Doc is no help- definitely a “wait and see” doctor….

    Reply
  6. I wish I could consult with you I am waiting for extensive blood work results… but not feeling comfortable with the Dr I choose. Would this be a possibility when I do have all blood work back???
    Thank you Joann

    Reply
  7. Hi Dr. Childs,
    After a lot of research, I was able to find one integrated and functional medicine Doctor in Houston, TX, Dr. Manisha Ghei. As you mentioned she does not accept insurance and the cost of her services are very high. I am willing to take a chance with her as I no longer trust conventional medical treatment. How can I confirm that this physician is indeed a right one. My understanding is that there are not many functional medicine physics in US. Do you happen to know Dr. Ghei and would you recommend her? Do you know any other functional medicine doctors you would recommend in Houston, TX?

    You are not taking any more patients and therefore I am looking at other options. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

    Kind regards,
    Sushmita

    Reply
  8. I live in Chandler, AZ. Would you please tell me the name of a doctor you would recommend. I had a TT and neck dissection 6 years ago (Stage 3 Thyroid Cancer). I have gained 45 lbs over this time my diet is virtually the same as it was pre-cancer. I exercise – yoga and weight training – to no avail.
    I’m on my second Endo and while she has finally let me get Armour, she still has me on Synthroid as well. She is all about the TSH #…..

    Reply
    • Hi Rebecca,

      Unfortunately, I don’t know anyone in that area to recommend but the article has several resources that you can use.

      Reply
  9. Hi Dr Childs, I live in the uk and I changed to NDT a year ago after not coping well on levothyroxine since having a total thyroid removal in 2002. I buy this from overseas and I have an endocrinologist who will sort of support me, but no real help in the uk

    Reply
    • Hi Claire,

      I know that there are some private doctors in the UK that will treat with alternative medications (some people who have used them have commented on my blog in the past).

      Reply
  10. I live in Spade Texas which is close to Lubbock Texas. The Dr’s here that take ins don’t know anything about thyroid and the Dr’s that do of course don’t take ins. I am retired and just can’t afford them. I’ve been hypothyroid since my 30s, I’m now almost 72. I felt OK until I turned 65, got hypoclycemic. It seems Everything I eat makes me sick if it has carbs. It’s hard to eat no sugar, no carbs. I hurt everywhere, I have so many things wrong, my family dr is a great person, but he doesn’t know what to do for me. I feel it’s the end of the road for me. I pray that someday ins covers things like this as I have grandkids that have thyroid problems and don’t want them to get my age and have no one to turn to. Thank you for listening to me.

    Reply
    • Hi Janis,

      Sorry to hear about your situation! It is unfortunate that insurance doesn’t cover this type of care but hopefully that changes in the future.

      Reply
    • Hi Janis, I just wanted to sympathise as I worry about my kids too. They both have significant health problems as I have had since the age of 20 (53 now), the doctors just don’t seem to take anything seriously, even if they are nice people. My daughter can’t even get the results of the thyroid test she had! If it’s better by the time they are older, that’s something to hope for. I’m sorry you feel so rubbish, part of the syndrome hypothyroidism causes will lead to you feeling down and defeated anyway, on top of the lack of help, it’s a vicious cycle. I have found that self-treating using the advice on this website has given the first hope I have had in years. I have no life and am just waiting to peg it, this bit of hope is everything. Maybe have a rethink, read everything on here and have a go at treating yourself, maybe discuss it with your kids to get another viewpoint on what would be worthwhile? Sending love anyway….. Daniella, xxx

      Reply
      • I’m sorry to hear about your struggle!

        Just remember:

        If you can get on the right treatment then hypothyroidism should NOT be considered a chronic condition in the sense that it should continue to cause you problems. Yes, you may need to continue using medications, but you should feel better once you dial in your dose.

        Reply
  11. I am moving to San Diego. Do you have a doctor you recommend? My doctor refuses to treat in any way but traditional, but I recently talked her into trying a T3 drug and my symptoms went away except for my weight gain. Now I am Moving and I want my new doctor to be the kind who treats all of me in a way that works. Who can treat my Hashimotos effectively.
    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Hi Holli,

      Unfortunately, I don’t have anyone to recommend in that area but you can use the resources in this post to help!

      Reply
  12. Thanks for all the articles and info, it has been helpful. I live in Wash. state (Redmond) Are you aware of any good Dr.s who fit your criteria. I currently see one who is ok. Even though my lab levels are within accepted I would like more info. Hopefully I can at some point make a visit to Arizona and have a full appointment in your clinic.
    Thank you
    Candy

    Reply
    • Hi Candy,

      Unfortunately, I don’t know anyone in the area to recommend! Sorry about that, but I’m glad you’ve enjoyed the articles.

      Reply
  13. Hi there, I am in the Phoenix area, but I know you aren’t accepting new patients. Is there anyone else in the valley you work with or know who
    Is a good option for Hashimotos? I’ve been to three doctors in the last year and just not having any luck with getting other options besides synthroid.

    Reply
  14. Having worked in medicine for over 31 yrs I have come to this opinion…most physicians, especially MD’s have no clue about Hashimoto or even hypothyroidism not from an auto immune disease. I retired in 2003 and at that time Hashimoto was not even considered in 95% of hypothyroid cases. Now it is the opposite. No one did antibody testing and those that did get them were from an Endo. There is a lack of understanding and information involved with this disease. It is not a one size fits all disease. Everyone has a different story. A different response to medications but the one thing for sure is that the symptoms we all experience are not to be taken lightly. Physicians need to stop going by the textbook that is antiquated and listen to the patients. The many components to Hashi and other auto immune diseases resulting from a weakened immune system will never be understood until physicians are willing to learn from the patient who is suffering. There is a strong correlation with Hashimoto and fibro and IBS and many other things like leaky gut. Believe that the key to finding help lays with the health in your gut. But you can not get help until physicians believe in such a thing as leaky gut and other issues that are very common with Hashi. I have yet to see a physician that is versed in auto immune diseases so going to an endocrinologist is not the answer for everyone unless you find one that actually knows what they are talking about. I have Hashimoto, PsA, fibro, IBS, oral lichen planus, Reflux, LPR, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol which diet, medication or exercise does not help. I go to the doctor and get nothing. I refuse to take pain pills. They do not work anyway. I learn as much as I can , research my own labs that I need, and basically treat myself. I hate when I get the look that I am a hypochondriac…i do not ask for pills. I am looking for someone who has more knowledge than I do….I have yet to find it.

    Reply
    • Hi Linda,

      Thanks for sharing! Unfortunately, I think much of the misunderstanding of thyroid management stems from the current standard of care. As long as the standard of care is the way it is, it’s very unlikely that any conventional physician will change their thinking.

      Reply
  15. Hi,
    I recently started treating my thyroid, working towards getting pregnant. Conventional doc started me on generic levothyroxine, after 2.5 weeks, I was experiencing severe itching & rash/hives. Doc switched me to 50 mcg name brand Synthroid white pill for me to cut in half. Itching & rash/hives continues for 12 days so I started on Tirosint today.

    Pre Thyroid Hormone (TSH 6.44, Free T4 1.34, TPO 209)
    After 4 weeks generic (TSH 2.04, Free T4 1.2, TPO 222)

    I ordered my own labs yesterday, after the 12 days of Synthroid and reading some on your blog
    TSH 3.43
    Free T4 1.17 (0.8-1.76)
    Free T3 3.2 (1.8-4.2)
    Total T4 9.46 (4.5-12.5)
    Total T3 66.3 (65-152)
    Anti-TPO 524 I have never seen it this high in the 3 years I have been checking it. Usually between 100-250 range.

    B12 504 (232-1245)
    Vit D 31.8 (30-100) I am going to start on supplement for this
    Folate 19.4 (>3)
    Iron 117 (27-159)
    AST 15 (0-40)
    ALT 17 (0-32)

    I am waiting on the reverse T3 results to come back. Any suggestions as to why the itching/rash/hives ? I have never had these before. I am also very confused why my thyroid results seem to be getting worse when starting thyroid hormone.

    Conventional doc tells me no to NDT for pregnancy goal, he says no studies to support the benefit of the hormones to the fetus. I know women who have had successful pregnancies on NDT so I am very confused.

    Any help much appreciated. As many do, I am struggling to find a doctor to help me in Greenville, SC.

    Reply
    • Hi Lindsey,

      NDT can absolutely be used safely during pregnancy, most physicians just don’t have experience using it so they don’t want to. It sounds like you may need to keep searching for a physician who is more willing to work with you. I would start with the resources on this blog!

      Reply
    • Lindsey, I am in Greenville, SC, too, and have struggled to find someone to help me. Did you ever find a doctor? It takes so long to get an appointment with anyone. I’ve been referred to an endocrinologist, but that was almost 2 months ago, and they haven’t even reviewed my file to make the appointment. I know they are at least 5 months out for appointments. My GP is great, but I feel like I’ve gotten too far out of the norm for her to know what to do for me. I’m beyond frustrated.

      Reply
  16. I had papillary cancer in 1988 with a total thyroidectomy, removal of lymph glands, sectioned the parathyroids, etc. I had a week of intense I 131 radioactive iodine treatment. I have not had a relapse of that cancer. I have been on 200 mcg of synthroid or levothroid since. My doctor will not change my meds even though my bone density test has changed for the worse for the last 5 years. I also have a combination of hyper and hypo symptoms. What advice do you have for those who had cancer?

    Reply
  17. Despite living close to Boston with some world renowed hospitals just 20 minutes away, over three plus years after a partial thyroidectomy at MGH, i have yet to find a doctor that fulfills the criteria. To the point that I’ve given up. Fortunately when I decided not to go back to the Endo, i found a clinical nurse specialist in private practice willing to add Cytomel to my T4 regimen, and order all the blood work you recommend. That said, she agreed to do it as a temporary measure on the condition I continue to search for a doc. Now three years later I’m still taking the meds, and though my values are better, they’re far from optimal. I’ve instituted many of the recommendations from your articles, from monitoring iron, ferritin, B12, etc. That too has been incredibly helpful. I know im not alone in this but i am so incredibly frustrated with the situation and only being able to complete part of the journey. The traditional approach to thyroid care is unfortunately alive and well. 🙁

    Reply
  18. Is it common for people who suffer from Hypothyroid to have sudden onset sharp shoulder blade pain?
    Is this a result of medications?

    Reply
  19. After 2 “complete” Thyroidectomies, I still have a portion of my thyroid down by my aorta. I have been on medicine for years (since around 2005) but still struggle. After the 2 surgeries, I have gained weight, still struggle with fatigue, slight depression, mood swings, and slight anxiety at times. I also have joint and muscle pain all over, but especially my feet and legs. I bruise easily and hurt just at being touched or bumping into something. It’s nice to see that some doctors such as Dr. Childs are being more attentive to their patients, but my doctor pretty much told me that my kids were the source of my mood swings and my TSH was fine. That was all she had to say and all she did. I felt worse about myself after that visit. My husband has scheduled an appointment for me with some hormone doctors in my area, I sure hope they can do something to help! Any tips you have would be great, and thanks for being our advocate!

    Reply
    • Hi Janean,

      It sounds like you are on the right track! There is no replacement for a knowledgeable physician to help guide you along the way.

      Reply
  20. Dr. Childs,
    Can you comment on coffee use and more specifically Bulletproof Coffee with MCT oil and butter (I use ghee) when having Hashimoto?

    Reply
  21. My daughter had brain cancer when she was 8 years old she is now 21. The Endocrinologist just keep her on levothyroxine and I know she needs something else but all they do is check her blood work and do nothing. She has had weight gain and super thin hair. Can you recommend any Endocrinologist that can help we live in Az? Thanks.

    Reply
    • Hi Lyssa,

      Sorry to hear about your situation! Unfortunately, I don’t have anyone that I can refer you to or I would.

      Reply
  22. I’m so glad I read about pellets. Wish I knew or had this information I would have discontinued the pellets immediately. I have gained so much weight losing my hair & other side effects. Thank you Dr.Childs wish you were my Dr. I have spent a lot of money in last 16 years. I will order your supplements. You’re a blessing and thank you so much. Tomasa.

    Reply
    • Hi Tomasa,

      Glad you found the article helpful! If you are having issues with hair loss make sure to look at both your thyroid and iron levels. And keep us updated how you do on the supplements 🙂

      Reply
  23. I am extremely fatigued, have internal tremors, shakiness and severe constipation. My tsh is 4.2, my free t4 is .8, my t3 total is 69 and my t3 free is 2.5. I also was diagnosed as having pernicious anemia and I have symptoms but my PCP refuses to properly treat me with the appro. priate B12 injections. My vitamin B level was 153. Can you suggest a doctor to see in NYC. I am willing to pay out of pocket. My endocrinologist unfortunately goes by the numbers and not my symptoms along with the numbers. I need help badly as I now have extreme anxietu.

    Reply
    • Hi Mary,

      Unfortunately, I don’t know anyone in that area to recommend. The best I can do are the resources listed in this article.

      I would also look into methylcobalamin injections for your case.

      Reply
    • No disrespect to Dr. Childs, but either he has been ostracized by the medical community or he cannot legally make any reccommendations because he constantly says he knows no one, nowhere, no-how. Your symptoms sound like thyroid hormone resistance. NYC- Dr. Alan Jacobs- look for his blog and website.

      Reply
      • Hi Samantha,

        The information found on this blog is based on my own experience and is self-taught and as a result, I don’t know anyone who does exactly what I do. It’s honestly not any more complicated than that. I don’t settle for anything less than 100% recovery in thyroid patients and I haven’t found anyone who takes that same approach.

        I don’t think many patients realize this but the information presented here is contrary to the standard of care and anyone who does it, despite the fact that it works tremendously well, puts themselves at risk. So you simply won’t find many physicians who are willing to take that risk because the alternative route is the path of least resistance (that is, to prescribe levothyroxine and monitor the TSH).

        Reply
  24. Hi Doctor,
    I want to thank you for your rich informations that I didn’t hear from anyone before and it describes my condition perfectly.
    I had thyroidectomy 2 years ago and I gain so much weight although I eat very healthy, I exercise when I can because I’m always tired and fatigue. I’m in Synthroid 112 now and Cytomel 10 but I can’t feel any better.
    And I have fibromyalgia too.
    My question is I’m purchasing the vitamins and the probiotic that you’ve mentioned in losing weight for thyroidectomy patient article and then I found another article about WB medicine that could be more helpful for patients instead of Synthroid and also I was planning to increase my cytomel (T3)medicine to 20 as you mentioned in your article. My question is which medicine should I start with? Shall I buy them all? and if so how can I use them all together? And yes I changed my endocrine twice and even the new one not convinced with T3 medicine at all and she doesn’t even ask for T3 or T4 blood test she only asks for TSH. So please help me to find out how can I improve my health.
    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Hi Elham,

      The best combination for thyroid disease is the T3 conversion booster plus thyroid adrenal reset complex, then if you want to lose weight you’d consider Gut bomb or ultra biotic for general health.

      Reply
  25. Hi Doctor-

    How is it possible to have a very low/below ranged free T4 and normal TSH and normal mid/upper range free T3?

    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Hi Deborah,

      There isn’t enough information for me to say, but it’s certainly possible to have that type of pattern when using T3 thyroid medication (T3 only or NDT).

      Reply
  26. Hi Dr. Childs;
    Can you recommend a Dr. in Oklahoma or North Texas? Would also be willing to travel outside that area to another state to get help. Thanks

    Reply
    • Hi Lavonda,

      Unfortunately, I don’t know anyone in that area. I actually don’t know anyone that practices like me in any place or I would happily recommend them in the post itself.

      Reply
  27. Greetings Dr. Childs and all.

    I would first like to thank you Dr Childs, for sharing your personal history and experiences. I have been researching online for close to 2years now, and have only found standard diagnosis and what the symptoms, tests, and treatments were for each. As helpful as that has been, it has done nothing when it comes to figuring out what is truly going on with my body, or how to simply just ‘feel better’. I still struggle daily, and symptoms only seem to compound and/or progressively get worse. I haven’t felt “100%” isn’t the past couple of years. I’m lucky if I ever feel just 75%. I just now came across your articles/blogs, and for the 1st time felt, that I finally understood what’s been going on with me. I also want to say thank you, for all of the discussion boards. It was not only insightful, but empowering to know that, I wasn’t the only one suffering from these ailments. My hopes are that I am able to find a Dr. that will not just run a “full” blood thyroid panel, and tell me that everything is normal, but that will listen to me. I know I am feeling and that everything is anything BUT normal. I have always believed in and been an advocate for conventional medicine. Holistic or non-traditional medicine, always seemed ‘hoaxy’ to me. You have given me reason to take a second thought and look further into such medicine. I’m quite certain, that I am not the only one who wishes to seek your help, but want to say thank you again for sharing what you do and for answering as many of the questions from the ones of us still struggling. I feel like there’s a renewed hope now.
    Thank you to all who have researched, found Dr.Childs, shared your stories, and asked all the questions.
    I would like any input from you,Dr. Childs, as well as suggestions from you all, or other links, articles, discussion boards that would be beneficial for me. My history is similar to most, and at 34(now 36) started having all of the textbook hypothyroid symptoms. Always been in great shape due in most part to genetics, but also bc I live an active and overall healthy lifestyle. I am 5’7” and always been an avg of 120-125lbs up until 2 years ago, where I gained 66lbs in 4-6 months. There was no change in my way of living or any other explanation. I have fought to lose just 15-20 of those lbs and struggle to keep even those ost lbs off. I became lethargic from lack of energy, and desire. My emotions have been more depressive, almost numb feeling. My libido has almost completely “died”, and have had the not so wonderful experience of stress incontinence, OAB, IBS, insomnia and/or waking up every couple of hours, night sweats, craving sweets(which I have NEVER cared for or craved and rarely ate). I have dry, scaly skin that has thinned out everywhere and lost laxity. I have developed edema, which is predominately in both of my lower legs and ankles, which is also on a daily basis. I get waves of nausea on a daily basis, dry eyes and mouth, migraines and the list goes on. I never feel “sick”, but I never feel healthy or “right”. I’m sick and tired of feeling sick and tired and am at my ropes end, so any insight, help, suggestions, etc are greatly appreciated.

    Reply
    • Hi Kelly.. Boy I just felt like I was reading something I would of wrote!! That’s me in a nut shell! Have you found a Dr to help? I’ve had no luck and pretty much gave up. People are afraid to die yet I pray that day comes sooner than later!

      Reply
  28. Hello Dr. Childs–

    Can you recommend anyone in the Chicagoland area? I live in St. Charles IL primarily, but if you also have any recommendations for the Phoenix/Chandler/Scottsdale area, that would also be great as I “reside” here for at least 1 weekend every month or so.

    I am 28 and just started my “Hypothyroidism Journey” today, after few years of fatigue, depression and the whole gambit of symptoms, despite continuous “normal” basic thyroid blood tests (1.4 TSH, etc.) My mother has had similar issues, so I was finally able to get into her doctor, but its really just a family practice. But the doctor was happy to start me on Levothyroxine immediately, and while that’s a good start I want to make sure its also right for ME.

    Due to friends and forums full of terrible experience with Endocrinologists, and other thyroid “experts”, I am really looking to find some better solutions for my mom, but also to start my own journey starting in the right direction with as much success as possible, with less trial and error.

    Reply
    • Hi Chelsea,

      I don’t know anyone in that area to recommend (or anyone anywhere for that matter!), sorry about that!

      Reply
  29. Hi Dr. Childs,
    I have been on Liothyronine 25mcg for approximately 4 1/2 months and I have noticed a steady rise in my fasting blood glucose (I monitor daily). I’ve done some research and it looks like this is a side effect of taking T3, can you comment? Should I be concerned?

    Reply
  30. Hi Dr. Childs,

    I was taking too large a dose of Nascent iodine for 5-6 months without asking my doctor because someone I work with said it lowered their blood pressure and I am hypertensive. I felt great while on it and it did lower my B/P. When I went for my annual physical and blood work with my primary doctor, all my labs came back normal including electrolytes but my thyroid numbers were as follows: TSH = 15.5, T4 = 4.1 (low), T3 uptake = 20% (low) and Free Thyroxine Index = 0.8 (low). My PCP wanted to start me on Synthroid 50 mcg. but I felt these abnormal numbers were probably due to taking the nascent iodine. I immediately stopped taking the nascent iodine and went to an Endocrinologist for a second opinion. He told me to wait a month and retake thyroid blood work plus do a thyroid ultrasound, which I did. My numbers after 4 weeks came back as follows: TSH = 2.7, T4 = 1.03, T3 = 107, Thyroglobulin Antibody = 25.9 (high) and TPO = 294 (high). My thyroid ultrasound was normal with one small non-specific left nodule present. My Endocrinologist did not seem too concerned about the high numbers but would like me to repeat these tests again in 3-6 months. I am stressing over these 2 high numbers as I don’t want this to get worse and cause damage to my thyroid gland. I am feeling tired but not sure if it is my stress causing it or from my blood pressure meds which have been recently increased. (When my TSH was elevated my blood pressure also went up). I am also taking a small dose of Imipramine (10 mg.) anti-depressant, which I have been on for years. My question to you is…Could the excessive use of nascent iodine have caused my TPO and Thyroglobulin Antibody to elevate, and, since I stopped taking it, should those numbers come down again? There is no autoimmune disease in my family that I am aware of. Also, how can I get these numbers down on my own? Can you recommend a holistic practitioner in NJ that can help me? Any advice at all that you can give me will be greatly appreciated. Thank you for any help with this.

    Reply
    • Hi Felicia,

      The long and short of it is that yes, taking high doses of iodine may potentially stimulate Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. It may or may not reduce after you stop taking the iodine, but most likely it will not. I also don’t know anyone in the NJ area to recommend or I would happily do so.

      Reply
  31. I wish you weren’t so far from florida! I love reading and hearing your thoughts. I’m sure you’re a wonderful doctor. I’m so tired of trying to feel better. 37 years of hashimoto’s and struggling to get help.

    Reply
  32. Hello Westin Childs,

    I had a TT in 2016 and it has been the worst since I did not have cancer thank God but it has been a difficult time I have found out I have a fatty liver plus my hormones were very low due to total hysterectomy so you have a little history I suffer from a lot of inflammation (FIBROMYALGIA-RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS)
    I am supplementing with:
    7-KETO DHEA
    SELENIUM 200MG
    PROGESTERONE 200MG
    I TAKE NATURAL THYROID 130MG

    YET I’M STILL AM NOT OPTIMAL

    MY IRON IS AS FOLLOWS
    IRON 90 (50.0-170.0)
    TIBC 234 (250.0-450.0)
    IRON SATURATION 38.46% (20-55)
    FERRITIN 241 (8.0-252.0)

    What am I missing I feel so fatigued all the time?
    Any suggestions.

    Reply
  33. Thank you, Dr. Childs, – an excellent article. I will pursue looking for a physician who thinks outside the box but Medicare will cover. We all sound so frustrated, you’d think there would be more physicians like yourself but I think you are not lazy and you do care. Maybe have a ‘wish list’ where we can get on it so if you ever do have an opening, and our name came up, we could make the trip to Arizona with our blood work on hand and get a consult. Something is much better than nothing. But I like your suggestion about compounding pharmacy recommendations. Will try that on Monday. On another note, do you think my taking your T3 Conversion supplement caused my blood work results to rise? I want to purchase the Thyroid Adrenal Reset Complex next. Just a thought… Thanks, Barbara

    Reply
    • Hi Barbara,

      No problem! The T3 conversion booster is designed to help improve thyroid function so it may help normalize some blood tests. I hope this helps!

      Reply
  34. Hello Dr. Childs and All,

    Does anyone know of an endocrinologist in the Pittsburgh, PA area? I have an Endo but believe I need to change her as she is treating only the lab numbers and not my symptoms. On the positive side of my present Endo, she at least has given me NDT and T3 after I experienced negative side effects of Synthroid. On the negative side, she wants to keep me at a low dose because my numbers, according to her, are better at a lower dose even when I have explained to her multiple times, I don’t feel good. I’m sluggish, sleepy, not focused, unable to lose weight, among other symptoms. I’ve expressed to her that I believe I require a higher dose of NDT. Additionally, my Endo refuses to test my RT3 or my thyroid for antibodies because according to her, “it’s not needed.” I’ve always eaten healthy and very clean my entire life, working out 5-days a week: Strength training 30 minutes, cardio 1 hour. I’ve gained 20 lbs in about 2 years and can not drop a pound despite all my efforts. I’m frustrated, angry and depressed. All my Endo can say,”it’s not the thyroid it has to do with your menopause.” Ugh! I don’t know what to do, someone help? Who can I see? I feel hopeless.

    Any help and advice are welcome. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Hi LR,

      You’re going to have a tough time if you are looking for endocrinologists as even though they are technically “hormone doctors” they don’t specialize in hormone replacement therapy such as estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, etc. You’ll have better luck looking for a doctor specializing in anti-aging or integrative medicine.

      Reply
  35. Hello –

    I live in Vermont and have seen primary care providers and one endocrinologist and one naturopath since I was diagnosed twenty years ago with hypothyroidism.

    I have long felt that the medication is not working correctly. I am currently taking synthroid but only for the last thirteen days as an experiment. It is making me hungry and wired all the time.

    I have taken generic levothyroxine for most of the last fifteen years. I tried Armour once, and Tirosint once, but neither seemed to help, and after reading your article I feel that there is much more I should do. I have put on weight, my blood pressure is always low, and so is my temperature…I have never hit 97.6 since I was a kid.

    I have an appointment to see my endo Muriel Nathan soon and I am asking for the tests you recommended in your list.
    Are there tests for adrenals or other hormones you can recommend?

    I have a lot of problems with muscle pain and fatigue but have been told that I do not have fibromyalgia…

    Thanks,

    Janice Haskell

    Reply
    • Hi Janice,

      Yes, I often start with a full hormone panel with each patient. The problem, though, is that most standard physicians do not know how to interpret even basic hormone tests because they aren’t trained in this area. So even if you ask for these tests it doesn’t mean that your doctor will know how to interpret them. The basics of testing include insulin, leptin, full thyroid hormone panel, FSH, LH, cortisol (serum), and sex hormones.

      Reply
  36. I am frustrated because my Endocrinologist rolled her eyes at me when I asked her to check my adrenal gland and told me that there is no such thing as adrenal exhaustion. She has really belittled my questions and only wants to keep increasing my Levothyroxine and nothing else. Can you recommend someone in Indianapolis, Indiana? I don’t know what to do at this point.

    Reply
    • Hi Beth,

      I’ve included some resources in this article to help in finding a physician local to your area. I would start with those resources.

      Reply
  37. I’m looking for a Dr. In the Pittsburgh area.. I’m currently taking a natural thyroid supplement and have come a long way but really need a good Dr to run the tests and work with me. I’ve got Hashimoto and EBV. Any suggestions? Thanks so much.. I’ve learned so much off your site!

    Reply
  38. Hello Dr. Child’s,
    I are a breath of fresh air! I was diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer 3 years ago and had a total thyroidectomy. When I asked my endocrinologist if I could take Armour or the like, he said no. He did not like the inconsistency in dosage. Is this what you would consider a standard answer by typical endocrinologist’s and is it warranted? I take 112 mg of levoxyl and 5 of t3.
    Thank you.
    Dina

    Reply
  39. Dr. CHILDS, I appreciate your constant help on thyroid issues. I have had thyroid isdues since I was 46 y.o. it was several yrs later that I was given the diagnosis of Hashimotos. Another functional dr determined my my t3 was low snd got me on the t3t4 compound rx. Fast forward to age 67 and retirement to Fl. A new endo found a nodule with subsequent diagnosis of cancer. Removal in January 2018. Howeverthe Dr office mesed up my rx and forb6 months I was recriving half of the proper rx. I’m now coming back and stsrting to feel better. with no thyroid now, what is your recemmendstion for weight loss. I’m on a t3t4 compound and had a total hysterectomy in 1999. I take a lot of various supplements, mostly Standard Process including Simplex F to help with the menopause. Under these circumstances what thyroid supplement would really help me. Most recommended are to support your thyroid. since I hsve none, what now? Thanks
    Susan Smith

    Reply
  40. Thank you for the informative articles and blogs. I really do appreciate it and following your advice has helped me with a better understanding of the problem, but it’s very complicated and I still need a doctor. I can understand you not wanting to recommend a doctor, but surely you must know someone in the greater Phx area that can provide a comprehensive approach to hashimotos and all the problems associated with it. Or if you are the only one, are you ever planning on seeing new patients again?

    Reply
    • Hi Cindy,

      I would definitely make any recommendations if I had any to make but the fact is I just don’t know anyone anywhere to recommend. At this time I don’t plan to accept or treat new patients as I am really focused on writing and researching at the moment. I’m looking to train new providers but it’s more difficult than it seems to find people who are willing to put so much time and effort into learning how to treat thyroid patients. As I find them and train them, though, I will let everyone know.

      Reply
  41. Hi Dr. Childs,
    Would you refer some doctor from the Chicago area? I am struggling from depression for 5 years and looks like nobody can help me.
    I tried many medications and treatments and it makes my depression worse.

    Reply
  42. Hello Dr.Childs, I am a very concerned women, I started having problems 10 years ago, I was getting tested for how far along was I at in menopause. I had elevated estradiol levels of 764. My Doctor at the time put me thru so many tests. These levels were not good. I even had a MRI that showed a normal pituitary gland. Assessment; Hyperestrogenism,They said it could be a functional abnormality.Fast forward 10 years,I have been living with hot flashes still, I just went on Estradiol-Norethindrone Acet this past December, my GYN said it would help me, I can’t keep having these hot flashes. I went to another Doctor in December also. Blood work came back with Hyper Thyroid. Took another test 3 weeks later and this Dr. thinks I have Hyperthyroidism.I am worried because I need to know what really is wrong? could it be something else. Could this test be off the charts from my experience in the past? The Doctor is wanting to do the I-131 Therapy.I feel I will not do anything. I will have to have more proof that I have a Hyperthyroid. I have no other systems. I have week nails, I still have hot flashes, not so many. I really don’t know what to do. Could the Pills I’m taking be causing the Thyroid to be Hyper? What tests should I take? What kind of Doctor should I see? Help Thanks for any information. Vickie

    Reply
  43. I am in WASHINGTON State. I feel like I should be in a world of NEW medicine but I can’t find anyone! Any thoughts for me? I am in the pyullup, sumner,auburn area. I have had every symptom for hypo for 5 plus years. Even my podiatrist some marks on my nails that indicated hypothyroidism and I still can’t find a doctor to help me. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Hi Alicia,

      You would think so but 99.9% of doctors practice the same way regardless of where they are located. Your best bet is to use the resources at the end of this blog to find one that is more progressive-minded. I don’t have any recommendations for anyone in your area.

      Reply
  44. Hello!
    I am writing on behalf of my son who is panhypopit due to a pituitary tumor and thus has not pituitary or thyroid function and is treated with levo, desmopressin, testosterone, and hydrocort. He is 19 and has been receiving replacement therapy since age 13.
    My question is because he does not have the pituitary function – would that skew a “full lab work? And would a t4 and t3 med possibly be more beneficial? He does still have joint pain, weight gain, anxiety and CRAVES sweets and Carbs. (He lacks focus, organization, and planning…but I attribute these to ADHD.)

    Reply
    • Hi Jan,

      Yes, you would still benefit from a full lab panel and I find that most people do better on T4 + T3 combinations whether they have a functioning thyroid gland or not.

      Reply
  45. My endo is adamant my thyroid is perfect, yet I still have brain fog and many difficulties with sleep. I drag in the morning and wired at night. I am on 32.5 nature-throid. Can you please recommend a Dr in the Phoenix area. I am suffering. My Labrix cortisol am30 is 11 noon 2.1 evening 0.85 night 2.4 also having blood cortisol checked next week on an i.v. with medicine to induce from endo.

    58 female
    TSH 1.80
    t4 free 0.9
    t3 free 2.4
    fsh 71.0

    estradiol <5
    testoterone total 36
    Vit D 51.7
    testosterone free lc ms/ms 1.9

    Reply
  46. Do you know of any endocrinologists that are more likely to understand your way of thinking about thyroid in the Denver Colorado area? My primary care doctor and my new functional medicine doctor both want me to see an endocrinologist because my TSH is below range, but I’m obviously inadequately treated on my NDT because my free T4 is the lowest number in the range and my free T3 is below range. I’m desperate for some help. They have concerns about central hypothyroidism.

    Reply
  47. I thought I had found an endo who would be great to work with.. she switched me from levo to Tirosint, added 5mcg Cytomel 2x a day, and I felt the best I had in years. I finally wasn’t freezing and had better energy. Free T4 was mid range, Free T3 was lower 1/3 of range, but she wouldn’t let me stay on cytomel because TSH was suppressed. Very disappointing because as far as I know this is to be expected! She insists a suppressed TSH is dangerous for the heart and osteoporosis. I could not sway her with looking at my Free’s.

    Reply
  48. Hi Lori- check our the Facebook group Hashimoto 411 for references and info. I’m in the same boat- TSH will be suppressed on NDT or T3 meds, and if your doc doses based on TSH only you will end up under medicated. I’m surprised your functional med doc isn’t better informed- that’s disappointing!

    Reply
    • Hi Amy,

      I just wanted to clarify a couple of points:

      “TSH will be suppressed on NDT or T3 meds” – TSH suppression is based on dosing and is not medication specific. It is possible to have a normal TSH on T3 only, NDT only, or a combination of NDT + T3. If you start dosing with the expectation that you need the TSH to be suppressed then you may find you are accidentally overdosing.

      “if your doc doses based on TSH you will end up under medicated” – There are some individuals where this is true, but these individuals tend to have genetic conversion issues or thyroid resistance which impairs the ability of standard tests to be accurate. For many patients, the TSH can be used as a treatment marker as long as it’s used in conjunction with free T3 and free T4.

      Reply
  49. Hi Dr. Childs! Thank you so much for your website. I had a hemithyroidectomy about 5 years ago. For a while after the surgery I was on Nature-Throid and doing perfectly until the manufacturer, RLC Labs, had a manufacturing problem and for many months I could not get Nature-Throid. I switched to Armour Thyroid (same dosage as Nature-Throid) at that time and my T3 and RT3 both went through the roof and my heart palpitations were severe. I stopped all thyroid medications at that time and waited for things to settle down. After repeating labs all results were in the normal range except TSH (10.72) and Thyroglobulin Antibodies (2.7). I was able to purchase Nature-Throid again and started on a very low dose (65 mg). Tests were repeated exactly 2 months later and all results were in the normal range again except TSH (4.99) which was an improvement and Thyroglobulin Antibodies (2.8). I decided to stay with the same dosage of Nature-Throid (65 mg) and repeat the tests 2 months later. This time all tests were in the normal range except Thyroglobulin Antibodies (2.3), a slight improvement and Reverse T3 (25.6). TSH was in the normal range but high (4.38). As a side note, I’m battling SIBO. In any event, I know you can’t give me medical advice but can you recommend anyone good within the State of Florida or do you offer phone consults? Also, can you recommend certain articles on your website that may benefit me and help with my situation? Thanks so very much.

    Reply
  50. Any recommendations for a doctor to see near East Valley in Phoenix, Arizona, when dealing with Hashimotos & Hypothyroid?

    Reply
  51. Hours wasted reading every bit of this information and taking notes. Thousands of dollars wasted on lab work that no one will read or take into consideration. Hundreds of dollars wasted on supplements. Quality of life remains zero. What is the point of this info when it is impossible to find a physician who will listen or help? It provides a lot of false hope. The one I saw most recently wanted to take me off of ALL thyroid medication because it is his option that the reason my TSH is low (0.02) and my antibodies are high, ( >900 and ABOVE 2is because I am taking too much Thyroid medication, though my Free T3 is 2.9 and my Free T4 is 0.9.

    Reply
    • Hi Stephanie,

      It’s definitely difficult but certainly not impossible as many people who are on this blog and in the comments section will tell you that they have eventually found someone. There’s also the chance that your symptoms may not be related to your thyroid and to some other issue in which case this information may not even be relevant to you. This is why it’s so important to find someone to help guide you.

      Reply
  52. Any recommendations for a dr in Scottsdale or NE Phoenix, AZ? I have a TSH of .006 and a Free T3 of 3.7 and that’s all my doctor has ordered. I don’t even want to go back to him even though I may be bald by the time I find a good doctor.

    Reply
  53. I am a marathon runner and found that on some days I could run 20 miles, no big deal and then the very next week or week after, it was a struggle to put one foot in front of another. I chalked it up to tons of training and being a full time working mom. It wasn’t until I goT my blood drawn to show my son it wasn’t scary that I received news that my tsh was off. After that and more tests, my general practitioner saw my thyroid levels go up and down, antibodies showed up and I tested positive for ANA. Was referred to a rheum who did more tests and declared I had Hashimotos. They sent me to an endo. In this time (2.5 month span) while not changing my diet (95% plant based and netting about 1200 -1300 calories a day after running) and keeping my running mileage the same as marathon training (160-190 miles per month), I had gained 8 pounds so far. I finally got into see the endo. She shot me down and dismissed that my numbers were not extreme enough for treatment. She said my weight gain was age related and that I should try reducing my calorie intake to 900 net. After pushing back and demanding for my hormone levels to be checked, she finally gave in and ordered the tests. I have had my blood drawn but now with the Coronavirus, I fear that I will be put on hold while the world deals with this pandemic. I have ordered the adrenal medicine and will look into zinc/selenium. I am from Tallahassee, FL so I’m limited in specialists but can travel. Hoping Shands in Gainesville may have someone there. Any other suggestions? Can I take T3 the booster pill with the adrenal one?

    Reply
    • Hi Jenny,

      Without your full bloodwork, it’s hard to say what exactly is going on but it sounds like adrenal fatigue is certainly a component. And yes, T3 conversion booster and Thyroid adrenal reset complex can be used together and that is the preferred way to take them (together).

      Reply
  54. My name is Allison and I live in a very outer place town and good doctors are hard to find. I have been suffering from Hashimoto’s disease for a long time. I am not getting any better and I need help. My health is going down hill. Can you help me find and doctor in the functional medicine field here in Maine. I really need some help.

    Reply
  55. Do you have any recommendation for a doctor in the Denver, CO or north Denver area? I have been dealing with horrible thyroid issues for the past 5 years. I was treated for hypothyroidism for 40 years and on the lowest dose of Levothyroxin. It wasn’t until my PCP decided to adjust my meds by doubling the dose after I was recovering from kidney cancer because I was a little tired. Since then it has been impossible to stabilize. I have been to 5 endocrinologists. I have mostly been told I‘m getting older, or I am stressed, or to take Minoxidil for hair loss, or that I have male pattern baldness. My hair grows back for a few months, then it breaks off and extensive hair loss all over. The cycle repeats every 3-4 months. My TSH and T4 are all over the chart. One time I even went from a TSH of 6.2 to .2 in a 30 day period. 4 months ago I was switched to Tirosint because I have Celiac disease and the PCP thought I wasn’t absorbing T4. The numbers haven’t changed at all and I have lost so much hair I am horrified. I have insomnia, shortness of breath, and I have to plead for help from PCP. Obviously the Tirosint isn’t good for me for some reason.No one has ever tested for T3, they only test T4 and TSH. I would give anything if I could find someone who could help me. It is exhausting and I just feel like there is no hope. I am 67 and I feel like I have lost 5 years of my life.
    I know I have Hashimotos because I paid for the test and TPO is very high. None of the doctors seem to care about that when I tell them. It is so frustrating. At this time with the pandemic it is really hard to know what to do.

    Reply
  56. Hello Dr Childs, can you recommend a good Thyroid Doctor in the area of southeast Florida, near Boca Raton Florida? I’d appreciate it. Thanks a lot.

    Reply
    • Hello, Dr Childs, do you know of Dr. Anjali Noble in Boca Raton Florida as a functional Doctor? If you can please let me know as I’m in search of a Doctor here in southeast florida. Thanks so much! Lynn

      Reply
  57. Dr Childs, thank you so much for your time and work on this website. I really appreciate all of the free information as I’ve been trying to get my thyroid issues corrected for a couple years now. I saw multiple people looking for a Dr to address these issues in Phoenix/Scottsdale. Please look up Dr Tracy Wooten, a homeopath (no insurance unless it’s for your bloodwork) and she does run full panels on T3/T4, and whatever else you need for hormone levels, etc.,

    Reply
  58. Thank you Dr. Childs for these instructions and information on this troublesome subject. I am inflicted with Hashimotos/hypothyrodiim disease for over 25 years now. I am on levoxythyroxin 112medication and I take vitamins also, Recently, I have discovered that my complexion is getting darker and I’m not in the sun. I have done a 6 weeks protocol with fruits, nuts and vegetables. I feel better and lost some weight but my complexion is still at the same point,,,,,,,,darker. Can this be a thyroid problem and how to correct it. I went to my gasterontologist and will do a full panel blood work. I would like you to take a look at it when I receive it and make recommendations. I am also scheduled to do a colonoscopy next month. Thanks for listening.

    Reply
  59. I was wondering if you know of any doctor that follows your protocol in the Phoenix area? Any recommendation would be wonderful! Have been struggling with Hashimoto’s for 18 yrs and now have insulin resistance as well as leptin resistance.

    Reply
  60. Hello Sir I do not need of any prescription only seeking openion or Advise …

    Hello sir .. Good morning.

    I m Dr .Viral Makwana..- Very very grateful to get your treatment.I am much much better now..Sir I need your help regarding thyroid medication dose adjustment in my ongoing pregnancy..

    Recently I just found that I m pregnant – 6 weeks on Ultrasound..
    (After 11 years of marriage and 2 years back 1 miscarriage so very Precious Pregnancy)..

    ( I don’t need prescriptions for medicine I just need your advise)..

    Do I need to increase my dose of meds I don’t find any doctor here who can guide me to adjust synthetic T4 and T3 in Pregnancy

    Please help me to adjust my dose ..

    Currently I am taking synthetic T4and T3 combination
    Total 25 micro gram T3 and 125 miligram of T4
    In divided doses (8am 12.5 T3 and 75 t4 and at 8 pm 12.5 T3 and 50 t4)
    My latest blood reports after taking Morning dose (8am dose) and blood given at 8 pm ( before taking evening 8 pm dose ) So after 12 hours of T 3 and T4

    My lab report (on 25th February 2021)
    Free T3 3.1 ( reference range 2.3-4.2)
    Free T4 1.16 ( reference range 0.8-1.7)
    TSH. 0.01 ( reference range 0.35-5.55)

    Reply
    • Hello!

      As long as your TSH is at least around the range of .1 and 1.0 and your free T3 level is at least mid-range then you can be sure that your baby will be getting the thyroid hormone that it needs to thrive 🙂 Be sure to also take methyl folate as well as iodine while pregnant to support brain development.

      Reply
  61. Dr. Childs,

    How do you know for sure that you are on too much T3? I have been on 1 grain compounded NDT and 50 mcg T3 for sometime and my Ft3 is still not optimal, yet my TSH is suppressed and my Ft4 is obviously low. I have no symptoms from the T3 except I get heart palps/hard beats. Doctors are telling me T3 is dangerous. A cardiologist I saw told me it was normal for thyroid patients to have heart palps. I am confused and obviously don’t want to damage my heart. The combo that I have been on seems to make me feel the best, although not great. I think I would benefit from more T3, but no doctor os going to prescribe that for me! Any advice?

    Reply
  62. Dr. Childs,
    I’ve been diagnosed with hashimotos since I was 25. I’m now 48. Oh the struggle! I have had numerous Endocrinologist. My last one moved out of the area. The one prior to that put me on a Tirosint and Cytomel combination. This seemed to be very effective for several years. However, for the past couple of years I have been struggling and my NP has been treating me. I live in AL. If you know or anyone else on this blog knows of a Great Doctor like you recommend, please let me know…. I take two hour naps every afternoon and still sleep all night. My last test ran was just a T4 and it was .68
    Sincerely,
    Selena

    Reply
  63. I can lose consciousness and it has been going on for years. I have really had enough and am so outspoken, I shall probably soon be barred from (and hated by) all (obstructive) state health robots.

    At the moment, I have elevated my blood pressure (not good is it?), so that I can use my GTN if I am out and about.. and need to stay awake.

    In the UK, we have no choices. Everyone thinks our health service is great, but in reality, with certain chronic health conditions, such as autoimmune disease, it is hell on earth for patients. Things are even worse than this, but I shan’t bore you with TMI, but ‘the systems’ in place are why we have such a high Covid death count. This plague having been embraced – for obvious reasons.

    Reply
  64. Hi Dr. Childs

    I can identify with your diagnostic path and need a doc with your thinking to fix me. I started with Synthroid way back in 2003 which hardly worked until it came to a total halt. I was then switched 5 years later by another doc to NDT and put on crazy 270mcg/day to barely operate. my suspicion is that the T3 in the NP is what keeps me moving and now to think that some of T3 is probably reversed in the process would mean I bearly have enough T3 for my fast-twitch muscles
    Any recommended doc in the Dallas Fort Worth Area in Texas?

    Reply
  65. Hello and happy Thursday

    Thank you for all you do and not least for helping to make the world a better place.

    Can you recommend anyone in Denmark, Europe?

    Thank you in advance and have a fantastic, fun, healthy and adventurous day :-))

    Reply
  66. Hello,
    I understand that Dr. Childs was in the process of training physicians about 5 years ago. Do we have any physicians trained that we can be referred to?

    Reply
    • Hi Irene,

      A few were trained and their practices are now full. It was harder than I anticipated to find physicians that were willing to be trained so I have put it on the back burner. There’s a huge market for people who need better thyroid management, the problem is that physicians often take the path of least resistance which is just standard medical practice. Most don’t want to take the risk.

      Reply

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