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Getting the most from your appointments

Evangeline Lindorf

I know you are sick and tired; of feeling sick and tired. From the other side of the exam table, I’d like to give you a provider’s perspective so you can best advocate for yourself.

The current model of mainstream western medicine is simply to see as many patients as possible in a single day. This leaves both providers and patients frustrated and dissatisfied; and, ultimately, leads to burn out for both. This system is destined fail. Patients should feel like a person, not a number. 


So, as a patient, how can you make the most of your time with your provider? Showing up 15 minutes early to check in and fill out paperwork helps tremendously with flow and efficiency. There is always paperwork to be done during a first visit. You’ll fill out forms quickly and easily if you bring the following information:


 A list of current, accurate medication, that includes the name, dosage, and frequency of each medication, as well as the reason you are taking it. This can be written down on a piece of paper; or tracked via an app on your phone. Heck, I don’t even care if you bring a plastic bag of all of your prescriptions and supplements in it! It’s so important to avoid medication errors and unwanted interactions, and this is the best way to ensure that. Rather than needing to go track down that information later, providing a complete, accurate list will not only prevent delays in your care, but it also allows your provider to make the best treatment decisions for you. Good information leads to good treatment plans!


A list of medications you have tried in the past (especially if it is relevant for the condition in which you are currently seeking treatment), and why you stopped it (if you had side effects or an allergic reaction for example), it is very helpful to know. That allows us to jump through some of the insurance hoops faster and get you to the best medication or treatment possible, as soon as possible.


A list of your top 2-3 most pressing questions that I can help answer. 


The number one most concerning symptom that you want addressed during our visit. We all deal with multiple symptoms and concerns, but your specialist is most valuable to you when they can hone in on their area of expertise. Knowing what is most important to your quality of life right now will help your provider get to the root cause of that symptom fastest: they can order the most relevant lab work or ask questions about your medical history that haven’t been explored during more general visits. (A urologist, for example, won’t have much insight on your thyroid medication.)


A list of any allergies to medications or foods, as well as a list of any surgeries you have had along with the year (approximately) you had the surgery. 


Radiology reports, recent lab work, or any other relevant testing done. Please note that none of our computers have CD readers on them, so the radiology report itself is the fastest way to make an assessment. (And we’ll cross our fingers that one day radiology converts to using thumb drives!)


A brief list of any chronic conditions you have been treated for. A short, one-page health history can be extremely helpful and save a lot of time. 


A family member or friend who knows you well and can help corroborate the health history, drive you home after the appointment if needed, and offer an outside viewpoint. 


Having a book, magazine, or noise-blocking headphones on hand can be helpful. Use the time you may be waiting to be seen to relax, breathe, and enjoy a moment of downtime. Enjoy the breather. what prompted you to seek the specific specialty’s services in the first place, or why your primary care doctor referred you here. 


A sure hope and solid belief in your body’s ability to heal itself given the right tools. 


PLEASE DO NOT BRING:


Lengthy articles printed off and written by Dr. Google or WebMD. They do not replace years of experience, education, and training, although they can be helpful tools when utilized properly. The majority of the time though, Dr. Google has induced a lot of unnecessary anxiety and angst sadly. 


MOST IMPORTANTLY:


The last things to bring with you—hope and patience. Exercise patience in the process; medicine is often a matter of trial and error—that’s why we call it practice—and sometimes it takes a few tries to find what works for you. Despite what you may have experienced in the past, the majority of those in the healthcare profession have a goal to get you better, improve your quality of life, and restore your health. I am overjoyed when my patients come back and tell me they are feeling better. Don’t lose hope. Keep advocating for yourself. Get a second opinion, or a third opinion if needed. You may feel like you are climbing Mt. Everest to get your health back, but I will be your guide, and will help you get the right team and equipment so you succeed in your climb. 

Is Mold Making You Sick?

By eklindorf • March 28, 2025
Is Mold Making Me Sick? Common Symptoms & What to Watch For Mold exposure is more than just an allergy trigger—it can be a root cause of chronic illness that is often overlooked. If you’ve been experiencing persistent symptoms without a clear diagnosis, mold might be the missing piece of the puzzle. Let’s explore the most common signs of mold illness and how to determine if your environment is making you sick. Common Symptoms of Mold Illness Mold illness, also known as Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), can affect multiple systems in the body. Here are some of the most frequently reported symptoms: 1. Respiratory Issues– Chronic sinus congestion, shortness of breath, wheezing, or a persistent cough can indicate mold exposure. 2. Brain Fog & Cognitive Issues – Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and confusion are common in mold toxicity. 3. Fatigue & Weakness – If you feel exhausted despite adequate rest, mold-related inflammation may be depleting your energy. 4. Skin Reactions – Unexplained rashes, itching, or increased sensitivity to chemicals could be linked to mold exposure. 5. Digestive Problems – Nausea, bloating, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms can be triggered by mold. 6. Muscle & Joint Pain – Widespread body aches, stiffness, and inflammation may indicate mold-induced toxicity. 7. Mood Changes – Anxiety, depression, or increased irritability can result from mold-related neuroinflammation. 8. Increased Sensitivity to Light, Sound, and Smells – Mold can affect the nervous system, making you more sensitive to stimuli. How to Determine If Mold is Making You Sick - Evaluate Your Environment – Have you noticed symptoms worsen at home, work, or school? Musty odors, water damage, or visible mold growth are red flags. - Track Your Symptoms – If symptoms improve when you leave a certain space for an extended period, mold may be a contributing factor. - Consider Testing – Mold illness isn’t always obvious on standard medical tests. Specialized urine mycotoxin tests and inflammatory marker panels can help confirm exposure. Next Steps: What You Can Do If you suspect mold is impacting your health, here’s what you can do: - Schedule a consultation for mold illness testing and a personalized treatment plan. - Take steps to assess and remediate mold in your environment. - Begin supporting your body’s detox pathways with proper nutrition, binders, and lifestyle changes. Ready to Get Answers? At Your Inspired Vitality, we specialize in identifying and treating mold-related illnesses. If you suspect mold exposure is affecting your health, contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your healing journey.

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

By eklindorf • August 20, 2024
Natural Treatments for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A Holistic Approach Hashimoto's thyroiditis, also known as autoimmune thyroiditis, is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to chronic inflammation and, over time, impaired thyroid function. Practicing as a holistic, integrative nurse practitioner in Provo, Utah, I often encounter patients seeking natural treatments for Hashimoto’s to complement conventional care. Individualized treatment is crucial. Several natural protocols have shown promise in managing this condition. Below, I outline some of the most effective holistic approaches, including iodine protocols, castor oil packs, essential nutrients and supplements, treating underlying infections, and the importance of a gluten-free diet. 1. Iodine Protocols Iodine is essential for thyroid function, as it plays a critical role in the synthesis of thyroid hormones. While iodine deficiency contributes to thyroid dysfunction, excessive iodine intake may, in very rare cases, exacerbate autoimmune activity in the thyroid. Therefore, it’s important to approach iodine supplementation cautiously. For patients with Hashimoto’s, I offer and recommend an iodine loading test to determine baseline levels before starting supplementation. If deficiency is confirmed, low-dose iodine supplementation can be considered, typically in combination with selenium. Selenium is crucial because it helps mitigate the inflammatory detoxing effects from iodine supplementation. We carefully titrate based on the patient’s response and lab results. 2. Castor Oil Packs Castor oil packs are a time-honored remedy in holistic medicine, valued for their anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. When applied over the thyroid gland, castor oil packs can help reduce inflammation and support lymphatic drainage, which can be very beneficial for patients with Hashimoto’s. The castor oil packs and castor oil I have found to be of the highest quality are available at the following link: https://www.shopqueenofthethrones.com/ Many patients report reduced neck pain and swelling, as well as an overall sense of well-being with regular use. 3. Essential Vitamins and Nutrients Several vitamins and minerals play a pivotal role in supporting thyroid health and modulating the immune system. Key nutrients to consider include: Vitamin D : Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of autoimmune diseases, including Hashimoto’s. Supplementation with vitamin D3 can help modulate immune function and reduce autoimmune activity. A typical dose ranges from 2,000 to 5,000 IU daily, depending on the patient’s blood levels. The best way to get Vitamin D is through your skin from the sun. In Utah, we are so far north of the equator that many people are deficient year round, and may need sun exposure + supplementation. I test all of my patients' Vitamin D levels routinely. B Vitamins : B vitamins, particularly B12, are essential for energy production and neurological function. Many patients with Hashimoto’s are found to be deficient in B12, which can contribute to fatigue and cognitive symptoms. Supplementation with a high-quality B-complex can support overall thyroid function and energy levels. I also test for the MTHFR gene to see if you need methylated B vitamins. Magnesium : Magnesium is involved in hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body, including those related to thyroid hormone production and utilization. It also supports adrenal health, which is often compromised in patients with chronic autoimmune conditions. Magnesium glycinate or citrate are well-absorbed forms that can be taken daily. Zinc and Selenium : Both of these minerals are crucial for thyroid hormone synthesis and immune regulation. Selenium, as mentioned earlier, is particularly important when supplementing with iodine, while zinc supports immune function and may help reduce thyroid antibody levels. 4. Treating Underlying Infections Chronic infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Lyme disease, and intestinal dysbiosis, have been implicated in the onset and exacerbation of autoimmune thyroiditis. Identifying and addressing these underlying infections is a critical component of a holistic treatment plan. For example, if EBV is suspected, antiviral herbs in combination with generalized immune system support may be beneficial. In cases of intestinal dysbiosis, a comprehensive gut-healing protocol, including probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes, can help restore balance to the microbiome and reduce systemic inflammation. Functional medicine testing can be useful in identifying these hidden infections, allowing for targeted treatment that addresses the root cause of the autoimmune response. 5. Gluten-Free Diet A gluten-free diet is often recommended for patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, as gluten has been shown to trigger autoimmune responses in susceptible individuals. This is particularly true for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, both of which are more prevalent in people with Hashimoto’s. Eliminating gluten from the diet can reduce inflammation, improve gut health, and lower thyroid antibody levels. Many patients report significant improvements in symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and digestive issues after adopting a gluten-free diet. In addition to avoiding gluten, it’s beneficial to focus on a nutrient-dense diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and berries. Reducing the intake of processed foods, refined sugars, soy, caffeine, and dairy can also support thyroid health and overall well-being. Conclusion Managing Hashimoto’s thyroiditis requires a comprehensive and individualized approach. By integrating the use of castor oil packs, essential vitamins, minerals, and supplements, going on a gluten free diet, and treating underlying infections, patients can significantly improve their thyroid function and overall quality of life. My goal is to empower my patients with the tools and knowledge they need to take control of their health, addressing not just the symptoms but the root causes of their condition.
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