Expert Advice

Acella Pharmaceuticals is partnering with Heather Procknal, NBC-HWC-CHC, to bring greater awareness to the importance of thyroid care and education. This post is sponsored by Acella Pharmaceuticals. 

Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional or health care provider if you believe you need medical treatment and before beginning any exercise, fitness, diet or nutrition routine. Acella Pharmaceuticals does not endorse, promote or sponsor any products or brands mentioned in this article. The views expressed are those of the author.

When it comes to managing hypothyroidism, personal experiences may offer invaluable insights. Heather Procknal, a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC- CHC) sat down with Jessica Fisher, PA-C, to discuss Jessica’s journey with hypothyroidism, from recognizing early symptoms to incorporating lifestyle changes. As a healthcare provider, living with hypothyroidism herself, Jessica offers a unique perspective on real-world strategies for managing thyroid health.

Jessica, thank you for sharing your personal and professional insights with us today. Let’s start with your own journey. What did you experience that led to your hypothyroidism diagnosis? What made you realize something wasn't right, and when were you diagnosed?

Thanks for having me, Heather! My journey with hypothyroidism started a few years ago when I began experiencing symptoms that didn’t seem to have a clear cause. I was constantly fatigued, no matter how much sleep I got. My hair was thinning, my skin felt dry, and I struggled with brain fog. I also noticed unexplained weight gain and difficulty losing weight despite eating well and exercising. These symptoms slowly crept up, but when they became persistent, I knew something wasn’t right. I had my thyroid levels checked, and sure enough, my TSH was elevated, leading to a diagnosis of hypothyroidism.

Aside from a pharmacological intervention, what lifestyle modifications did you make following your diagnosis? Which ones have you found most beneficial?

Great question! While medication can be incredibly helpful, I knew I needed to support my thyroid function with lifestyle and nutrition as well. One of the biggest changes I made was adjusting my diet. I focused on whole, nutrient-dense foods and reducing inflammatory foods such as processed sugars, gluten, and dairy, which can sometimes aggravate thyroid issues.

Beyond diet, managing stress was key. Chronic stress can suppress thyroid function, so I incorporated mindfulness techniques, gentle movement like yoga, and consistent sleep routines. Another game-changer for me was addressing gut health. There is growing evidence that the gut and thyroid may be closely connected, so I added more probiotics and fiber-rich foods to support digestion and absorption of nutrients.

When you and your provider review your lab results, what are you paying particular attention to? Does your provider request any non-standard tests in your lab script? If so, do you know why?

When reviewing labs, my provider looks beyond TSH. Many standard panels only check TSH, which doesn't always give the full picture. They also check Free T3 and Free T4 to assess active thyroid hormone levels, Reverse T3 to ensure proper hormone conversion, and thyroid antibodies to rule out autoimmune thyroid conditions such as Hashimoto’s disease.

My provider also checks for nutrient deficiencies, particularly vitamins D and B12, selenium, and iron, since these can impact thyroid function. Sometimes, they’ll look at cortisol levels because chronic stress and adrenal dysfunction can play a role in thyroid health. Having a comprehensive view helps my provider tailor my treatment plan more effectively.

As a medical professional yourself, do you have any tips for what our readers should expect from – or look for in – their treating provider to help ensure they get the best possible care?

Absolutely. It’s important to find a provider who listens to your symptoms, not just your lab results. Thyroid function can be nuanced, and a good provider will look at the full clinical picture, not just whether your TSH falls within the “normal” range.

I also recommend finding a provider open to a holistic approach – someone who considers lifestyle, nutrition, and stress management as part of treatment. If your provider is unwilling to order a full thyroid panel or discuss your symptoms thoroughly, don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion. Patient-centered care is key.

What other advice might you have for our readers who may be living with or caring for someone with hypothyroidism?

My biggest advice is to be patient with the process. Balancing thyroid health takes time, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Keep a symptom journal, advocate for yourself in medical settings, and be open to adjusting your treatment plan as needed.

If you’re supporting a loved one with hypothyroidism, be understanding of their energy levels and mood fluctuations. Simple gestures like meal prepping with nutrient-dense foods or encouraging rest can make a big difference.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of community. Finding support groups or connecting with others going through a similar journey can be incredibly validating.

Discussing Hypothyroidism with Your Healthcare Provider

Are you experiencing persistent hypothyroid symptoms? It’s important to find a treatment approach that works for you — one that can offer relief from symptoms while helping to manage your lab levels. Advocating for comprehensive care may make all the difference in your health journey. Download this discussion guide so that you have questions, topics, and information in mind to help you and your provider discuss hypothyroidism.

Download the Discussion Guide>>

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