If you're wondering if you might have Thyroid problems, you're not alone. Our bodies are a mystery to most of us, even doctors sometimes! It's natural to wonder if changes or new symptoms mean problems.

These health issues are relatively well-known as potential thyroid concerns:

• Gaining weight

• Feeling fatigued

• Losing hair

• Heart racing

• Cold hands and feet

None of these situations automatically equate to thyroid problems, nor are they the only signals your body might send. These common symptoms could also indicate a dysfunctional thyroid:

• Constipation

• Hot flashes

• Mood swings

• Infertility

• A foggy brain

• Irregular menstrual cycles

Deciphering the Root Cause(s)

Identifying the root cause, or causes, of your health symptoms is step one in understanding the signals your thyroid sends you.

Most doctors order the TSH test to diagnose thyroid health, so let's start there.

First, TSH stands for thyroid stimulating hormone, and the TSH test measures how TSH is in your blood.

Second, the pituitary gland in your brain tells your thyroid when to make and release TSH into your bloodstream.

Third, according to the American Thyroid Association, the standard medical range for a normal TSH blood test is between 0.4 and 4.0 milliunits per liter (mU/L). Be sure to notice where the decimal points are in those numbers; they look similar at first glance!

So far, so good. Now you know why your doctor's ordering a TSH blood test.

Here's what you might need to learn and what your doctor probably isn't telling you.

While the standard medical range for the 0.4-4.0 above, the functional ranges are much tighter, between 1.30-3.50.

A functional blood chemical analysis gives you more accurate information sooner.

How to take the faster and smarter path to getting healthy

Imagine your brain, liver, adrenal glands, and gut as your favorite band. You know their music so well that you instantly know when they're out of sync, even if you can't figure out why. If you listen longer or more carefully, you notice someone's out of step or hear an out-of-tune instrument.

It's the same with your body. You need deeper, more accurate information to understand what's causing your thyroid symptoms.

Get a full thyroid panel, not just a TSH blood test

This blood test is like taking more time to listen to the band because it helps you "hear" each instrument. Instead of just testing the TSH level, you're analyzing nine additional crucial indicators, including:

• Free Thyroxine Index

• T3 uptake

• TSH

• Thyroxine (total T4)

• Triiodothyronine (T3)

• Thyroid Peroxidase Abs

• Thyroglobulin Ab

• Free T3

• Free T4

• Selenium

Vitamins, Minerals, and Homocysteine

Vitamins and minerals play their part in healthy thyroid function, too. A deficiency in Vitamin D, A, B6, Magnesium, or Selenium could sabotage your thyroid, as can low iron levels.

Elevated homocysteine levels are problematic, too. According to the Cleveland Clinic, "Homocysteine is an amino acid. Vitamins B12, B6, and folate break down Homocysteine to create other chemicals your body needs. High homocysteine levels may mean you have a vitamin deficiency." A Homocysteine level above 7 umol/L could mean thyroid hormones aren't energizing your metabolism.

Simple Steps for a Happier Thyroid

Tame the inflammation: Ditch chemicals and processed foods. Become a label detective at the grocery store.

Balance your blood sugar: When blood sugar drops, your body produces ketones, which rejuvenate the brain. This process helps your thyroid function smoothly.

Manage your stress: Life throws curveballs. But chronic stress hampers your thyroid's performance. Consider adrenal supplements to keep things in check.

Care for your gut and liver: Your body needs both in top shape for optimal thyroid function.

Are you feeling overwhelmed? It's a lot, but knowledge is power. And remember, it's not just about a single gland or one blood marker. It's the whole picture.

Regular tests can tell you if they're in good health. If your doctor doesn't run these tests, I will. Call me at 470-290-8025 or email office@drsusanmonias.com and request a consult. Just start. Get powerful; get smarter about how your body's functioning.