Hypothyroidism Treatments NYC - Dr. John Salerno

Integrative, and Complementary Medical Care for Hypothyroidism at Salerno Wellness in Manhattan, NYC and Connecticut

I understand how life with hypothyroidism can feel like an uphill battle. Low energy, mood changes, and unexplained weight gain can leave you feeling like you're not yourself. The good news? My holistic and integrative approach to treating hypothyroidism doesn't just address these symptoms – it targets the root cause. Together, we will create a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for you, so you can reclaim your energy, health, and quality of life. 

-Dr. John Salerno

What is Hypothyroidism? 

Hypothyroidism, often referred to as an underactive thyroid, occurs when your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped organ located in your neck, plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions. It supports your metabolism, energy production, and even mental clarity. 

When thyroid hormone levels drop, your body’s systems slow down. Tasks as simple as getting out of bed or concentrating at work may start feeling impossible. While hypothyroidism can develop from conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, iodine deficiency, or even certain medications, there are also environmental and genetic factors involved. 

Diagnosing hypothyroidism is not always straightforward. Standard lab tests may not always capture the full picture. That’s why I go beyond conventional testing by analyzing T3, T4, TSH, Reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies. This comprehensive approach allows us to detect even subtle deficiencies that may otherwise go unnoticed, ensuring you receive the right diagnosis and treatment. 

Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism symptoms can be diverse and affect multiple areas of your health. Here are the most common symptoms and what they may feel like for someone living with this condition:



• Chronic Fatigue - Chronic exhaustion is one of the hallmark signs of hypothyroidism. You might feel tired no matter how much sleep you get, and simple tasks may leave you drained. 

• Unexplained Weight Gain - Sluggish metabolism due to low thyroid hormone levels often results in steady weight gain that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise.

• Cold Sensitivity - Feeling unusually cold, even in comfortable temperatures, can be a sign of slowed metabolic processes affecting body heat production. 

• Brain Fog - Poor concentration, forgetfulness, or difficulty processing information are all tied to impaired thyroid function. 

• Hair Thinning and Dry Skin - Hypothyroidism often disrupts the hair growth cycle and skin hydration, resulting in brittle hair and flaky skin. 

• Depression and Mood Swings - Low thyroid hormones can alter brain chemistry, leading to changes in mood, irritability, or feelings of sadness. 

• Constipation - Slower digestion is another symptom caused by decreased thyroid hormones slowing bodily processes. 

Common Causes of Hypothyroidism

There are multiple contributors to hypothyroidism, each of which can play a significant role in disrupting thyroid function. Autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's Thyroiditis are among the leading causes, where the immune system mistakenly attacks thyroid tissue. Nutritional deficiencies, specifically iodine and selenium, are also critical factors. 

Chronic stress, toxin exposure, and poor gut health further strain the thyroid, affecting hormone production and conversion. Often, the thyroid doesn’t operate in isolation, meaning imbalances in other hormones, particularly cortisol, can have a compounding effect. Unchecked inflammation frequently accompanies these issues, exacerbating the problem further. Some cases of hypothyroidism are also genetic, as thyroid dysfunction can be passed down through families. 

Related Medical Conditions 

Hypothyroidism often coincides with or contributes to additional health issues. Addressing these conditions as part of comprehensive thyroid care can improve overall treatment outcomes. 

• Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis - An autoimmune disorder and one of the leading causes of hypothyroidism. It often results in chronic inflammation and requires special attention to calm the immune response. 

• Adrenal Fatigue - Chronic stress can deplete your adrenal glands, leading to hormonal imbalances that worsen hypothyroid symptoms. 

• Anxiety and Depression - Since the thyroid plays a role in mental health, untreated hypothyroidism can contribute to or exacerbate mood disorders. 

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - The overlap of symptoms such as extreme fatigue can suggest dual conditions needing specialized care. 

How Dr. John Salerno Treats Hypothyroidism 

At my practice, every treatment plan is personalized to meet your unique needs. My approach combines precise hormone replacement therapies, nutritional guidance, and advanced diagnostic tests unavailable in most conventional clinics. Beyond managing symptoms, I focus on restoring the balance between your thyroid and other interconnected systems to create sustainable improvements in well-being. 

I also place a significant emphasis on lifestyle modifications as part of the treatment process. Stress management, adequate sleep, and appropriate physical activity play crucial roles in supporting thyroid health. Additionally, I educate my patients on the importance of reducing dietary triggers, such as processed foods and potential allergens, which can exacerbate inflammation and disrupt hormonal balance. By addressing these factors holistically, my goal is to empower patients to take control of their health and achieve lasting results.

Possible Side Effects of Treatment 

While my treatments are all evidence-based and carefully customized, some patients may experience minor changes during the adjustment phase. These adjustments can include slight headaches or mild hormone sensitivities. My team monitors your progress to address anything unusual. 

What Can Happen if Hypothyroidism is Untreated? 

Hypothyroidism doesn’t just impact how you feel day-to-day; it can negatively affect long-term health. Prolonged underactive thyroid function can lead to serious medical complications, from cardiovascular challenges due to slow heart rates to infertility in women unable to ovulate. 

Untreated hypothyroidism can also result in the development of goiter, which is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, often leading to visible swelling in the neck. Over time, it can progress to more severe conditions such as myxedema, a rare but life-threatening complication characterized by extreme fatigue, low body temperature, and slowed mental function. Furthermore, the impact on mental health is significant, as many individuals may experience depression, memory impairment, or difficulty concentrating, commonly known as "brain fog." Addressing these issues early through proper diagnosis and treatment is crucial to avoiding these potentially severe consequences and improving overall quality of life.

Patient Case Study 

Samantha, a 38-year-old woman living in Manhattan, walked into my office two years ago feeling helpless. She had been misdiagnosed earlier and dismissed despite significant signs of fatigue and hair loss. Through my practice’s cutting-edge diagnostic assessments and dedicated care, she has recovered her energy, lost 18 pounds, and gained peace of mind. 

Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to patients and digging deeper when symptoms persist. Samantha’s case was complex, but with a personalized approach, we unraveled the underlying issues. By addressing her hormonal imbalances and creating a tailored nutrition and lifestyle plan, we were able to not only alleviate her symptoms but also restore her confidence in her health. Every patient’s journey is unique, and Samantha’s success reinforces our commitment to treating the whole person, not just a list of symptoms.

Why Patients Choose Dr. Salerno

With over 30 years of experience delivering integrative care, I specialize in identifying what traditional medicine often overlooks and provide optimized care in NYC. At the heart of our practice is a commitment to addressing the root causes of health issues, rather than merely treating symptoms. By taking the time to truly understand each patient’s unique medical history, lifestyle, and goals, we create comprehensive, individualized plans designed to promote long-lasting health and vitality. Whether it’s through advanced diagnostic testing, personalized nutrition guidance, or targeted supplementation, our goal is to empower patients to take charge of their health and achieve balance in both body and mind

Additional References

• Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)" - National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK
• Thyroid Disease - Office on Women's Health (OWH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)