Thyroid Disorders
Personalized evaluation and care for thyroid conditions
Care in Howard County and Across Maryland
Meet with Dr. Andrea Ridgeway for in-person appointments on Mondays in Woodbine or virtual telehealth throughout Maryland.
Start with a Clarity Consult from $195. If you decide to proceed, ongoing care is $225 per month. Laboratory and medication costs are separate.
What Is Thyroid Disorders?
The thyroid gland produces hormones (T4 and T3) that help regulate metabolism and influence energy use, body temperature, heart rate, and other functions. When thyroid hormone levels are too high or too low, symptoms can affect multiple areas of health.
Thyroid evaluation often starts with a TSH test, which is useful in assessing thyroid function. Depending on symptoms, medical history, and initial results, additional testing may be appropriate. At Soluna Vitality, Dr. Ridgeway reviews the broader clinical picture to determine which tests are relevant.
Symptoms
Common signs and symptoms associated with thyroid disorders include:
- Persistent fatigue despite adequate sleep
- Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Feeling cold when others are comfortable
- Brain fog, poor memory, and difficulty concentrating
- Depression, low mood, or anxiety
- Constipation and digestive issues
- Dry skin, brittle nails, and hair loss
- Muscle weakness and joint pain
- Elevated cholesterol levels
- Irregular or heavy menstrual periods
What Causes Thyroid Disorders?
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis (autoimmune thyroid disease)
- Nutrient deficiencies (iodine, selenium, zinc, iron)
- Chronic stress, which can affect overall well-being and contribute to symptoms that overlap with thyroid conditions
- Changes in estrogen levels, which can affect thyroid hormone binding
- Age-related risk of thyroid disorders
How Soluna Vitality Treats Thyroid Disorders
At Soluna Vitality, Dr. Ridgeway considers thyroid test results alongside your symptoms, medical history, and related health factors to guide individualized care.
Thyroid testing tailored to your clinical situation, which may include TSH, Free T4, Free T3, thyroid antibodies, and, when appropriate, other tests such as Reverse T3
Review of thyroid hormone levels in the context of your symptoms and other test results
Thyroid hormone optimization when clinically indicated
Assessment of relevant nutrient levels, such as iron, selenium, zinc, or vitamin D, when clinically indicated
Assessment of cortisol or other adrenal-related concerns when clinically indicated
Review of digestive health and related concerns when clinically relevant to your symptoms and care
Ongoing monitoring with lab retesting and protocol adjustments
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my doctor say my thyroid is normal but I still have symptoms?
A TSH result within the lab's reference range makes primary hypothyroidism less likely, but it does not explain every symptom. Fatigue, weight changes, and brain fog can have many causes, and additional thyroid tests may be appropriate based on your symptoms, history, and initial results. Dr. Ridgeway can review your results and discuss whether further evaluation or treatment is warranted.
What is the difference between hypothyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is when thyroid hormone levels are clearly low and TSH is elevated. Subclinical hypothyroidism occurs when TSH is elevated but T4 remains in the normal range. Some people with subclinical hypothyroidism report symptoms such as fatigue, but these symptoms are nonspecific and may have other causes. Whether treatment is appropriate depends on TSH and thyroid hormone levels, symptoms, medical history, and individual risks and benefits. Dr. Ridgeway can discuss next steps based on your results.
Can thyroid problems cause weight gain?
Yes. Hypothyroidism can contribute to weight gain by slowing metabolism and increasing fluid retention. For some people, thyroid dysfunction is an important factor in weight-management challenges. Treating an identified thyroid problem can support weight management, alongside nutrition, activity, sleep, and other relevant factors.
How does stress affect thyroid function?
Ongoing stress can affect the body's hormone systems and may influence how you feel, including symptoms that overlap with thyroid conditions. Cortisol and thyroid hormone metabolism interact, but stress does not necessarily cause thyroid dysfunction. If you're experiencing persistent symptoms, Dr. Ridgeway can review your history and appropriate lab results.
Related Conditions
Thyroid Disorders is often connected to other hormonal and metabolic conditions. Learn more:
Ready to Address Your Thyroid Disorders?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ridgeway to discuss your symptoms, get comprehensive testing, and create a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for you.