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What triggers Hashimoto’s disease?

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Introduction: Why Hashimoto’s Needs a Functional Approach

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the leading cause of hypothyroidism in the U.S., yet it is often treated solely with thyroid hormones—ignoring the immune system dysfunction behind it. At Patients Medical in NYC, we believe thyroid care should go beyond labs and medication.

Our integrative model uncovers what’s actually triggering your autoimmunity, allowing us to restore thyroid function, reduce inflammation, and support your body as a whole.

What Is Hashimoto’s Disease?

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and reduced hormone production (hypothyroidism).

Over time, Hashimoto’s can destroy thyroid tissue, leading to chronic fatigue, metabolism issues, and other systemic effects.

Common Symptoms of Hashimoto’s Disease

  • Fatigue
  • Weight gain
  • Cold intolerance
  • Dry skin and hair
  • Constipation
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Memory issues or brain fog

Root Causes: What Triggers Hashimoto’s Disease?

At Patients Medical, we identify and remove the root triggers of Hashimoto’s. These can include:

Leaky Gut (Intestinal Permeability): A damaged gut lining allows undigested food and toxins to enter the bloodstream, triggering autoimmune flare-ups.

Gluten Sensitivity: The protein in wheat (gliadin) is molecularly similar to thyroid tissue, often confusing the immune system.

Chronic Infections: Viral infections like Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), H. pylori, and Lyme disease can initiate or exacerbate autoimmunity.

Environmental Toxins: Exposure to mercury, fluoride, mold, and endocrine disruptors puts stress on your thyroid and immune system.

Nutrient Deficiencies: Low levels of selenium, zinc, iron, vitamin D, and B12 impair thyroid hormone synthesis and immune regulation.

Hormonal Imbalance: Estrogen dominance, adrenal fatigue, and low progesterone can worsen autoimmune attacks.

Stress & Trauma: Chronic emotional stress raises cortisol, which can suppress immune tolerance and worsen thyroid autoimmunity.

Diagnostic Testing We Use

We go beyond standard TSH tests and dig deeper with advanced functional labs:

Thyroid function tests (TSH, Free T3, Free T4, reverse T3)

Thyroid antibodies (anti-TPO, anti-thyroglobulin)

C-reactive protein (CRP) and other inflammatory markers (to assess systemic inflammation)

Vitamin and mineral panels (including selenium, vitamin D, and iodine levels)

Gut health testing (to evaluate for leaky gut and imbalances in gut microbiota)

Comprehensive hormone panels (to assess cortisol, estrogen, and other hormones affecting thyroid function)

Heavy metal testing (to check for toxic metal exposure)

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) testing (to assess for viral triggers)

Integrative Treatments for Hashimoto’s Disease

Nutritional Therapy

  • Thyroid-supporting foods (rich in iodine, selenium, and zinc)
  • Gluten-free and dairy-free diets (as they may exacerbate autoimmune symptoms)
  • Anti-inflammatory meal planning (to reduce inflammation and improve overall thyroid health)
  • Elimination diets (to detect and address food sensitivities that may trigger autoimmune responses)

IV Vitamin Therapy

  • Vitamin D (essential for immune function and thyroid health)
  • Magnesium (supports thyroid function and reduces muscle pain)
  • Glutathione (a potent antioxidant that supports detoxification)
  • B-vitamins (to boost energy levels and support thyroid metabolism)

Herbal & Nutraceuticals

  • Ashwagandha (an adaptogen to reduce stress and support thyroid function)
  • Selenium (supports thyroid health and reduces autoimmune inflammation)
  • Probiotics (to support gut health and immune function)
  • Turmeric (a natural anti-inflammatory that can help manage autoimmune reactions)

Stress Reduction

  • Acupuncture (to reduce stress and promote thyroid health)
  • Mindfulness and meditation (to reduce cortisol and promote overall health)
  • Adaptogenic herbs (such as Rhodiola to balance cortisol levels)

Hormone Balancing

  • Thyroid hormone replacement (when necessary, customized to individual needs)
  • Cortisol management (to reduce stress and support thyroid function)
  • Estrogen and progesterone balancing (to support hormone regulation)

Real Case Study: Rachel’s Recovery from Hashimoto’s

Sarah, 41, came to us with debilitating fatigue, hair loss, and brain fog. Her TSH was mildly elevated, but she had high anti-TPO antibodies. Traditional doctors offered only Synthroid.

Our testing uncovered:

  • Leaky gut
  • Gluten sensitivity
  • EBV reactivation
  • Low selenium and D3
  • Estrogen dominance

We developed a 6-month protocol including:

  • AIP diet
  • Gut repair supplements
  • Viral support herbs
  • IV nutrient therapy
  • Stress management and hormone balancing

By month five, Sarah’s antibody levels dropped 40%, her energy returned, and her hair regrowth had begun. She continues to thrive under maintenance care.

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Testimonials

“My labs were ‘normal,’ but I felt awful. This was the first clinic that listened and helped me feel alive again.”
– K.H., 37,Manhattan
“They helped me lower my thyroid antibodies naturally. I never thought I’d feel this good again.”
– R.L., 45,Queens
“Hashimoto’s was wrecking my fertility. With support here, I conceived naturally after 8 months.”
– J.M., 35,Brooklyn
“No more hair loss, brain fog, or anxiety. Just balance. Thank you for treating the root cause.”
– A.S., 50,Bronx
“I’ve been to three endocrinologists. None did what Patients Medical did for me in two months.”
– T.C., 56,NYC

Explore Our Blog For More Insights

Frequently Asked Questions

 While the autoimmune process can’t be “cured,” you can reduce antibodies, restore function, and feel dramatically better with the right support.

Some patients do, but with healing, dosages may decrease. Others stabilize through integrative care alone.

 We look beyond TSH and treat root causes, not just lab numbers.

 There’s a genetic link—but lifestyle, gut health, and stress often determine expression.

Hypothyroidism is low thyroid function. Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune attack that causes it.

 This is common. We test free T3, T4, antibodies, and reverse T3 for a full picture.

 Yes—gluten, sugar, and dairy can worsen inflammation. We guide you with tailored nutrition plans.

 They are markers of autoimmunity against the thyroid. Reducing them is key.

 Absolutely. Chronic stress increases cortisol, which worsens immune dysfunction.

 We are out-of-network but provide superbills for reimbursement. Many labs may be partially covered.

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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    All information presented in this website is intended for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of rendering medical advice. Statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information contained herein is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Patients Medical.

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