Can You Have Hashimoto’s Disease Without a Thyroid?

Introduction: Why Hashimoto’s Needs a Whole-Body Approach

Many believe that removing the thyroid through surgery or radioactive iodine ends Hashimoto’s disease. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. At Patients Medical in New York City, we take an integrative approach to treating the root causes of ongoing autoimmune activity—even after the thyroid is gone.

We don’t just treat your labs—we treat you.

What Is Hashimoto’s Disease?

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and, over time, reduced thyroid function (hypothyroidism).

But even after the thyroid is removed, the autoimmune attack can persist, affecting other organs and systems, including the brain, skin, joints, and digestive tract.

Can You Have Hashimoto’s Without a Thyroid?

Yes. Autoimmune activity can remain active after thyroid removal (thyroidectomy) or destruction (via radioactive iodine). That’s because:

  • The immune system doesn’t just stop attacking because the thyroid is gone.
  • Autoimmune markers like anti-TPO and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies may still be elevated.
  • Symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, and depression can persist.
  • The underlying root causes—gut dysfunction, infections, toxins, etc.—haven’t been addressed.

Hashimoto’s is not just a thyroid issue. It’s an immune system disorder.

Common Symptoms (Even Without a Thyroid)

If you’ve had your thyroid removed but still experience these symptoms, Hashimoto’s may still be active:

Root Causes: Why Does Hashimoto’s Persist Without a Thyroid?

At Patients Medical, our functional medicine approach uncovers the triggers that keep your immune system in attack mode:

  • Leaky gut syndrome (intestinal permeability)
  • Chronic infections (Epstein-Barr virus, H. pylori, candida)
  • Toxin overload (heavy metals, mold)
  • Nutrient deficiencies (selenium, zinc, iron, B12, vitamin D)
  • Stress and adrenal dysfunction
  • Hormonal imbalances (estrogen dominance, low cortisol)
  • Poor liver detox function

Genetic variants (e.g., MTHFR mutations)

Diagnostic Testing We Use

We look beyond TSH to understand the full picture:

Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3

Anti-TPO and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies

Adrenal and cortisol panels

Gut health panels (stool microbiome, leaky gut)

Heavy metal and mycotoxin testing

Viral panels (EBV, CMV)

Nutrient levels (D, B12, selenium, magnesium)

MTHFR and detox pathway genetics

Integrative Treatments for Post-Thyroid Hashimoto’s

Personalized Nutritional Therapy

  • Autoimmune Paleo (AIP) diets
  • Gluten-free and dairy-free protocols
  • Gut-healing foods and prebiotic-rich fiber
  • Detox-supportive nutrients (broccoli sprouts, cilantro, beets)

IV Vitamin Therapy

  • Vitamin C, B12, B-complex
  • Selenium and zinc
  • Glutathione for detox
  • Magnesium for fatigue and nerve health

Targeted Supplements

  • LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone) to modulate immune response
  • Probiotics and digestive enzymes
  • Adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola
  • Omega-3s, curcumin, and resveratrol

Hormone Optimization

  • We optimize T4/T3 ratios
  • Monitor reverse T3 to avoid cellular hypothyroidism
  • Address estrogen, cortisol, and insulin resistance

Real Case Study: Emily’s Journey Beyond Surgery

Emily, 46, had her thyroid removed due to nodules and was placed on T4-only medication. But months later, she still felt exhausted, had brain fog, and gained 18 lbs.

Her antibody levels were still elevated, and her gut panel revealed candida overgrowth and leaky gut. Our 6-month plan included:

  • AIP diet + gut healing
  • IV nutrient therapy
  • T3/T4 combination hormone treatment
  • Adaptogens for adrenal support
  • LDN therapy
    By month five, Emily’s antibodies dropped significantly, her energy improved, and she lost 12 lbs.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

 Yes. Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune condition. The immune system may continue attacking even after the thyroid is gone.

 Hormone replacement is essential, but integrative care addresses immune triggers, gut health, and nutrient imbalances

 Many patients see dramatic improvement in fatigue, mood, and metabolism when treated holistically.

It’s not considered curable—but it can go into remission with the right support and lifestyle adjustments.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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