Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsThyroid DiseaseThyroid DoctorsPrimary Care ProvidersWhen to See a Thyroid SpecialistHolistic ProvidersHow to Find a Thyroid Doctor
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Thyroid Disease
Thyroid Doctors
Primary Care Providers
When to See a Thyroid Specialist
Holistic Providers
How to Find a Thyroid Doctor
Doctors can treathypothyroidism(low thyroid function) and other thyroid disease, though hormone specialists calledendocrinologistsand thyroidologists are among the healthcare providers you may see for these conditions.
This article explains hypothyroidism, its symptoms, and the healthcare providers who treat it. The article will help you to learn more about the reasons for seeing a specialist to treat thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism.
1:24How to Work With Your Thyroid Medical Team
1:24
How to Work With Your Thyroid Medical Team
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When Should You Get Your Thyroid Checked?
Hyperthyroidism speeds up your body’s systems and processes, while hypothyroidism slows them down, leading to opposite symptoms.
Thyroid Hormones and FunctionThethyroid(a butterfly-shaped gland at the front of your throat) produces hormones calledthyroxine (T4)andtriiodothyronine(T3). Thyroid function depends greatly onthyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)released from thepituitary gland. In thyroid disease, you can have too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism) with different symptoms.
Thyroid Hormones and Function
Thethyroid(a butterfly-shaped gland at the front of your throat) produces hormones calledthyroxine (T4)andtriiodothyronine(T3). Thyroid function depends greatly onthyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)released from thepituitary gland. In thyroid disease, you can have too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism) with different symptoms.
When you experience symptoms that may be thyroid-related, it’s important to see a healthcare provider and begin the process of an accurate diagnosis.
Most people will first make an appointment with their primary care provider to discuss the following symptoms and any necessary testing.
Hyperthyroidism (Overactive)Unintended weight lossUnusually hot and sweatyDifficulty falling asleepWake up at night a lotRacing heart at bedtimeSevere hair lossShorter, lighter periodsSkin rashesHypothyroidism (Underactive)Unintended weight gainUnusually coldWaking up exhaustedLong naps"Marathon" sleep sessionsSome hair lossHeavy, painful periodsDry, scaly skin
Hyperthyroidism (Overactive)Unintended weight lossUnusually hot and sweatyDifficulty falling asleepWake up at night a lotRacing heart at bedtimeSevere hair lossShorter, lighter periodsSkin rashes
Unintended weight loss
Unusually hot and sweaty
Difficulty falling asleep
Wake up at night a lot
Racing heart at bedtime
Severe hair loss
Shorter, lighter periods
Skin rashes
Hypothyroidism (Underactive)Unintended weight gainUnusually coldWaking up exhaustedLong naps"Marathon" sleep sessionsSome hair lossHeavy, painful periodsDry, scaly skin
Unintended weight gain
Unusually cold
Waking up exhausted
Long naps
“Marathon” sleep sessions
Some hair loss
Heavy, painful periods
Dry, scaly skin
TSH Levels Test: What Do High and Low Levels Mean?
Who Treats Thyroid Disease?
Several types of healthcare providers can play a role in managing thyroid disease and its symptoms. Some people only see one healthcare provider for thyroid-related issues, while others have a medical team they work with to manage their disease.
The types of healthcare providers you may want to consider include:
Your primary care provider may be able to diagnose and manage your thyroid disease, especially if you have hypothyroidism. Most primary care providers are comfortable monitoring TSH levels and adjustingthyroid hormone replacement medicationaccordingly.
Healthcare providers check your thyroid with blood tests and imaging, usually beginning with a blood test for TSH level. The American Society for Clinical Pathology recommends that if TSH level is not normal, more tests are needed and may include:
Your provider can begin treatment withlevothyroxine. In some cases, your healthcare provider may need to make decisions about test results considered subclinical (you don’t have typical symptoms).
Imaging tests, especially for hyperthyroidism, may include an ultrasound, thyroid scan, or a radioactive iodine uptake test to identify thyroid nodules and see how active the gland is.
Terry Vine / Getty Images
Anendocrinologistis a doctor who completes training in internal medicine (like a primary care physician) and then undergoes more training (usually two to three years) in the field of endocrinology. Endocrinologists diagnose and treathormonal imbalances, and treat people with:
Some cases and special situations may warrant a second opinion or specialist care for your hypothyroidism.They can include:
Endocrinologists
Even if you have “textbook” symptoms of hypothyroidism, your healthcare provider may refer you to an endocrinologist. This can be for a number of reasons:
Depending on your diagnosis and treatment plan, your endocrinologist may opt to manage your condition on their own. Alternatively, your endocrinologist and primary care provider may work together to manage your condition.
Primary Care vs. SpecialistWhile primary care providers can manage some endocrine conditions, like “textbook” hypothyroidism and diabetes, an endocrinologist is generally better for hyperthyroidism and pituitary or adrenal gland problems.
Primary Care vs. Specialist
While primary care providers can manage some endocrine conditions, like “textbook” hypothyroidism and diabetes, an endocrinologist is generally better for hyperthyroidism and pituitary or adrenal gland problems.
Thyroid Disease and Diabetes
A Word From VerywellAn endocrinologist can receive specialized training, after which they are called a thyroidologist. This specialist can test your thyroid hormone levels and potentially prescribe thyroid medications. Other naturopathic and chiropractic providers can also complement your thyroidologist to round out your treatment.—STEFFINI STALOS, DO, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
A Word From Verywell
An endocrinologist can receive specialized training, after which they are called a thyroidologist. This specialist can test your thyroid hormone levels and potentially prescribe thyroid medications. Other naturopathic and chiropractic providers can also complement your thyroidologist to round out your treatment.—STEFFINI STALOS, DO, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
An endocrinologist can receive specialized training, after which they are called a thyroidologist. This specialist can test your thyroid hormone levels and potentially prescribe thyroid medications. Other naturopathic and chiropractic providers can also complement your thyroidologist to round out your treatment.
—STEFFINI STALOS, DO, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD
Thyroidologist
Endocrinologists who get extra training and specialize in thyroid disorders are called thyroidologists. You may need to see a thyroidologist if you:
Your thyroidologist may order specialized tests, such as molecular testing used to diagnose cancer.This may lead to surgery or other recommended treatments.
Team Treatment
Your endocrinologist or thyroidologist may work with your primary care doctor to manage your condition. For example, if your primary care doctor refers you to an endocrinologist for a diagnosis of Hashimoto’s disease, the endocrinologist may find the right dosage of thyroid hormone replacement for you.
It may then be up to your primary care doctor to keep track of your TSH levels going forward, with you seeing the specialist only for a yearly check-up or if a problem arises.
Complementary Thyroid Providers
Many thyroid patients seek out a treatment plan that includes practitioners of different disciplines and takes a “whole body” approach.Naturopathic healthcare providersandchiropractorsare sometimes involved in this type of thyroid treatment.
Naturopathic Doctors
A licensed naturopathic doctor (ND) graduates from a four-year graduate-level holistic medical school. Their approach to healthcare tends to be more integrative than traditional doctors because NDs believe no part of your body operates in isolation from the rest.
Different Guidelines
Some NDs practice botanical medicine, recommending herbs for the care of various medical problems. Taking herbs and supplements can be beneficial in some cases.Yet it can also be especially harmful to a person with thyroid disease as those substances may interfere with your medication and/or the functioning of your thyroid gland itself.
The standard medical approach to hypothyroidism is a synthetic form of T4. Many NDs instead prescribedesiccated thyroid hormonefor hypothyroidism. This product is derived from the dried thyroid glands of pigs or cows and provides both T4 and T3.
Most expert organizations, such as the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology and the American Thyroid Association, don’t recommend its usage for most patients. However, some studies find the use of desiccated thyroid extract offers benefits in some cases.
Natural and Herbal Thyroid Treatments
Natural thyroidThyroid extractPorcine thyroidPig thyroidBrand names include Nature-throid and Armour Thyroid.
Brand names include Nature-throid and Armour Thyroid.
Chiropractors
According to the American Chiropractic Association, chiropractors are designated as “physician-level providers” in the vast majority of states.
While the doctor of chiropractic (DC) program is similar to the doctor of medicine (MD) program in the first two years. Later, the DC program focuses on diet, nutrition, and spinal manipulation, while the MD program emphasizes clinical medicine, including pathology and pharmacology.
Chiropractors can order laboratory tests and imaging, but they can’t prescribe medication. That means they may be able to diagnose thyroid disease, but then they’re required to send you to a medical doctor for treatment.
Chiropractors can, however, provide supportive thyroid care such as nutritional guidance or ways to ease musculoskeletal pain associated with thyroid disease (likecarpal tunnel syndromeor joint aches).
Chiropractors are legally prohibited from prescribing thyroid medication, which means that they cannot treat or cure thyroid conditions.
Finding a healthcare provider for your thyroid care can be challenging, as the relationship is an intensely personal one, and it’s not always easy to find the right match. That’s especially true if you face limitations due to geography and insurance.
With advancements in telehealth, though, you may be able to find a specialist to consult with long-distance. You also have access to resources, such as theonline ATA database. It can help you to locate a board-certified endocrinologist or thyroidologist in your area. It includes information about diabetes care and other hypothyroidism-related specialties.
Telehealth, What It Is, and Its Pros and Cons
Summary
Hypothyroidism is a thyroid disorder in which you have low thyroid function. It’s often important to see a hypothyroidism doctor or specialist for treatment, although in many cases your primary healthcare provider can begin the diagnosis with basic blood tests.
Once your hypothyroidism is suspected, you may be referred to an endocrinologist or thyroid specialist (thyroidologist) for care. This is especially true if your hypothyroidism is related to an underlying health condition that requires care beyond the expertise of your primary care provider.
In most cases, hypothyroidism is managed with medication, but treatment depends on the cause of your thyroid disorder. In some cases, your providers will work as a team so be sure to discuss your care with your providers and don’t hesitate to ask questions about your treatment.
8 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Wilson SA, Stem LA, Bruehlman RD.Hypothyroidism: Diagnosis and Treatment.Am Fam Physician. 2021 May 15;103(10):605-613. PMID: 33983002.Hormone Health Network.Patient engagement.Carteret Health Care.Do you need an endocrinologist for hypothyroidism?American Thyroid Association.Molecular testing in thyroid nodules.Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges.The difference between a traditional naturopath and a licensed naturopathic doctor in North America.Riza E, Linos A, Petralias A, De Martinis L, Duntas L, Linos D.The effect of Greek herbal tea consumption on thyroid cancer: a case-control study.Eur J Public Health.2015;25(6):1001-5. doi:10.1093/eurpub/ckv063Shakir MKM, Brooks DI, McAninch EA, Fonseca TL, Mai VQ, Bianco AC,et al.Comparative Effectiveness of Levothyroxine, Desiccated Thyroid Extract, and Levothyroxine+Liothyronine in Hypothyroidism.J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2021 Oct 21;106(11):e4400-e4413. doi:10.1210/clinem/dgab478.American Chiropractic Association.Certification, licensure and education.Additional ReadingMcAninch EA, Bianco AC.The history and future of treatment of hypothyroidism.Annals of Internal Medicine. 2016;164(1):50-56. doi:10.7326/M15-1799.
8 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Wilson SA, Stem LA, Bruehlman RD.Hypothyroidism: Diagnosis and Treatment.Am Fam Physician. 2021 May 15;103(10):605-613. PMID: 33983002.Hormone Health Network.Patient engagement.Carteret Health Care.Do you need an endocrinologist for hypothyroidism?American Thyroid Association.Molecular testing in thyroid nodules.Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges.The difference between a traditional naturopath and a licensed naturopathic doctor in North America.Riza E, Linos A, Petralias A, De Martinis L, Duntas L, Linos D.The effect of Greek herbal tea consumption on thyroid cancer: a case-control study.Eur J Public Health.2015;25(6):1001-5. doi:10.1093/eurpub/ckv063Shakir MKM, Brooks DI, McAninch EA, Fonseca TL, Mai VQ, Bianco AC,et al.Comparative Effectiveness of Levothyroxine, Desiccated Thyroid Extract, and Levothyroxine+Liothyronine in Hypothyroidism.J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2021 Oct 21;106(11):e4400-e4413. doi:10.1210/clinem/dgab478.American Chiropractic Association.Certification, licensure and education.Additional ReadingMcAninch EA, Bianco AC.The history and future of treatment of hypothyroidism.Annals of Internal Medicine. 2016;164(1):50-56. doi:10.7326/M15-1799.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Wilson SA, Stem LA, Bruehlman RD.Hypothyroidism: Diagnosis and Treatment.Am Fam Physician. 2021 May 15;103(10):605-613. PMID: 33983002.Hormone Health Network.Patient engagement.Carteret Health Care.Do you need an endocrinologist for hypothyroidism?American Thyroid Association.Molecular testing in thyroid nodules.Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges.The difference between a traditional naturopath and a licensed naturopathic doctor in North America.Riza E, Linos A, Petralias A, De Martinis L, Duntas L, Linos D.The effect of Greek herbal tea consumption on thyroid cancer: a case-control study.Eur J Public Health.2015;25(6):1001-5. doi:10.1093/eurpub/ckv063Shakir MKM, Brooks DI, McAninch EA, Fonseca TL, Mai VQ, Bianco AC,et al.Comparative Effectiveness of Levothyroxine, Desiccated Thyroid Extract, and Levothyroxine+Liothyronine in Hypothyroidism.J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2021 Oct 21;106(11):e4400-e4413. doi:10.1210/clinem/dgab478.American Chiropractic Association.Certification, licensure and education.
Wilson SA, Stem LA, Bruehlman RD.Hypothyroidism: Diagnosis and Treatment.Am Fam Physician. 2021 May 15;103(10):605-613. PMID: 33983002.
Hormone Health Network.Patient engagement.
Carteret Health Care.Do you need an endocrinologist for hypothyroidism?
American Thyroid Association.Molecular testing in thyroid nodules.
Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges.The difference between a traditional naturopath and a licensed naturopathic doctor in North America.
Riza E, Linos A, Petralias A, De Martinis L, Duntas L, Linos D.The effect of Greek herbal tea consumption on thyroid cancer: a case-control study.Eur J Public Health.2015;25(6):1001-5. doi:10.1093/eurpub/ckv063
Shakir MKM, Brooks DI, McAninch EA, Fonseca TL, Mai VQ, Bianco AC,et al.Comparative Effectiveness of Levothyroxine, Desiccated Thyroid Extract, and Levothyroxine+Liothyronine in Hypothyroidism.J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2021 Oct 21;106(11):e4400-e4413. doi:10.1210/clinem/dgab478.
American Chiropractic Association.Certification, licensure and education.
McAninch EA, Bianco AC.The history and future of treatment of hypothyroidism.Annals of Internal Medicine. 2016;164(1):50-56. doi:10.7326/M15-1799.
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