Hypothyroidism: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces a low amount of the hormones T3 and T4, leading to a general slowdown of the body’s metabolism. It is a relatively common hormonal disorder, especially among women, which can develop gradually over years before being diagnosed.

When the thyroid gland does not function optimally, the entire body enters an “energy-saving” state: fatigue, a reduced metabolic rate, decreased concentration, and mood changes.

The role of the thyroid gland in the body

The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating many vital systems:

• Basal metabolism
• Maintaining body temperature
• Daily energy levels
• Brain function and concentration
• Emotional balance and the nervous system

A decline in its activity affects almost every system in the body.

Main symptoms of hypothyroidism

The symptoms can develop gradually, so they are sometimes not identified right away:

• Chronic fatigue and lack of energy
• Weight gain without dietary changes
• Sensitivity to cold
• Hair loss
• Dry, brittle skin
• Constipation
• Low mood or depression
• Difficulty concentrating and a feeling of “brain fog”

Key causes

The most common cause is Hashimoto’s disease – an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

Additional causes include chronic stress, nutritional deficiencies (such as selenium and iodine), postpartum hormonal changes, and genetic predisposition.

Medical diagnosis

Diagnosis is made through blood tests:

• TSH – a key indicator of thyroid function
• Free T4
• Free T3
• Antibodies (Anti-TPO) to identify an autoimmune process

In a state of hypothyroidism, TSH is usually high and T4 is low.

Conventional treatment

The standard treatment is administering a synthetic hormone (levothyroxine), which replaces the thyroid gland’s activity and balances hormone levels in the body.

Hypothyroidism according to Chinese medicine

In Chinese medicine, an underactive thyroid is usually linked to an imbalance in the Kidney, Spleen, and Liver systems.

The Kidneys are responsible for basal energy (Jing), and their weakening can show up as deep fatigue, internal cold, and a slowed metabolism. The Spleen is linked to producing energy from food, and when it is weak, fatigue, heaviness, and weight gain appear. The Liver is linked to the flow of energy, stress, and emotional stagnation.

In Chinese medicine terms, hypothyroidism sometimes reflects a state of Yang deficiency with an accumulation of dampness and internal stagnation.

Treatment approach at Shai Davids’ clinic

At Shai Davids’ clinic, treatment for hypothyroidism combines an integrative view of body and mind. The approach does not focus only on the thyroid gland, but on the root of the imbalance in the system as a whole.

Treatment may include acupuncture to balance the Kidney and Spleen systems, Tuina to improve the flow of Qi and blood, and dietary and lifestyle adjustments to reduce the burden of stress and strengthen basal energy.

The goal is not only to balance blood test results, but to improve the sense of vitality, internal warmth, daily energy, and overall quality of life.

When to get tested?

It is recommended to seek diagnosis when you experience prolonged fatigue, decreased concentration, weight changes, or an unexplained feeling of internal cold.

Early diagnosis enables effective treatment and a significant improvement in quality of life.