- 1034 S Brentwood Blvd Ste 530, Richmond Heights, MO 63117
- [email protected]
- 314.798.7422
Across the country, doctors are seeing more and more patients with thyroid issues. Modern life isn’t kind to the thyroid gland. Chemicals, stress, sedentary lifestyles, and processed foods can cause disruptions to this critical hormone system.
The thyroid regulates metabolism and various bodily functions. When thyroid function is disrupted, it can lead to a range of symptoms and health problems.
At Link Primary Care, we treat many patients complaining of fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, and more. In a lot of cases, these symptoms can be traced back to problems with the thyroid. We take the time to fully uncover what’s going on with your health, using the latest in testing and treatment to treat thyroid issues and get you back to feeling your best.
Low thyroid function, or hypothyroidism, can manifest through a variety of symptoms. This is the most common type of thyroid condition, and this list lines up with most patient experiences. Common signs of thyroid issues include:
Patients with hypothyroidism often report persistent fatigue and low energy levels, making it difficult to engage in daily activities.
Unexplained weight gain, even with a controlled diet and regular exercise, is a common symptom of low thyroid function.
Individuals with hypothyroidism may have an increased sensitivity to cold temperatures and find it challenging to stay warm.
Dry and brittle skin, as well as thinning and dry hair, can be indicative of thyroid dysfunction.
Hypothyroidism is often associated with feelings of sadness, depression, and mood swings.
Some patients may experience muscle and joint pain, which can interfere with their daily activities.
Thyroid hormones also play a role in regulating digestive processes, and hypothyroidism can lead to constipation.
In women, thyroid dysfunction can disrupt the menstrual cycle, leading to irregular periods or even amenorrhea (absence of menstruation).
Cognitive functions may be affected, resulting in memory lapses, difficulty concentrating, and brain fog.
An enlarged thyroid gland, known as a goiter, can cause a hoarse voice and visible swelling in the neck.
Standard primary care doctors are often the first point of contact for patients seeking medical attention. The problem is that primary care physicians often only have limited time for each patient. Chronic symptoms and complex conditions like thyroid disorders can be difficult to investigate thoroughly. But that’s not the case at Link Primary Care in St. Louis. We offer longer appointment times that allow our doctors to fully determine the causes of why you aren’t feeling well.
In addition, most primary care doctors rely on a handful of standard thyroid function tests, such as TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and T4 levels, to make their diagnosis. These tests don’t always detect subtle thyroid dysfunctions, leading to missed diagnoses.
As mentioned earlier, hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormones. This can lead to a slowing down of the body’s metabolic processes. Hypothyroidism is commonly treated with synthetic thyroid hormones like levothyroxine.
In contrast, hyperthyroidism results from an overactive thyroid gland that produces excessive thyroid hormones. Symptoms may include rapid heart rate, weight loss, anxiety, and heat intolerance. Treatment options may include medication, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery.
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and eventual thyroid dysfunction. This condition often leads to hypothyroidism and requires lifelong hormone replacement therapy.
Link Primary Care is leading the direct primary care (DPC) revolution in St. Louis. We’re making healthcare easier and more affordable. You don’t have to go to an expensive specialist or a questionable alternative practitioner when it comes to thyroid symptoms. Address your thyroid issues with a simple monthly primary care membership.
Some advantages of direct primary care for treating thyroid issues include:
DPC providers typically have smaller patient panels, allowing them to spend more time with each patient and provide personalized attention. This is crucial when dealing with chronic conditions like thyroid disorders.
Our doctors can order a broader range of diagnostic tests, including more specialized thyroid function tests, to ensure accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.
Our DPC model in St. Louis eliminates the need for insurance involvement and copayments, making healthcare more affordable and accessible. Patients pay a monthly or annual fee, which covers primary care services, including those related to thyroid issues.
The extended time DPC doctors have with their patients allows for the development of strong patient-doctor relationships, leading to improved communication and better care outcomes.
Link Primary Care emphasizes preventive care, helping patients manage their thyroid disorders more effectively and reducing the risk of complications. Let’s get you feeling healthy in all areas.
Thyroid issues are complex and often misunderstood, leading to missed diagnoses and inadequate treatment in traditional primary care settings.
By choosing the DPC healthcare model, patients can receive the attention and support they need to manage their thyroid disorders effectively and enjoy improved overall well-being. Link Primary Care’s doctors approach thyroid disorders with a thorough understanding of their intricacies, ordering comprehensive tests and providing personalized, holistic care. We want to help you find solutions to your healthcare concerns!
Contact us today to find out why Link Primary Care is one of St. Louis’ most trusted primary care clinics.
Family Medicine Clinic in St. Louis, MO.
We make healthcare affordable, personalized, and convenient.
