Comprehensive Functional Medicine Evaluation for Unexplained Fatigue in Kansas and Missouri
Are you struggling with unexplained fatigue and lack of energy despite getting enough sleep? At EvoHealth Functional Medicine, serving Kansas City, Overland Park, Lawrence, Olathe, Lee’s Summit, and St. Louis, our clinic specializes in identifying and treating the root causes of fatigue using advanced diagnostic testing and a personalized approach to care.
Advanced Diagnostic Testing for Fatigue
When it comes to evaluating unexplained fatigue, functional medicine offers a deeper dive into key biomarkers that conventional medicine may overlook. Our clinic utilizes advanced testing methods, including:
1. Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR)
The Cortisol Awakening Response measures the natural rise in cortisol levels within the first 30-60 minutes after waking up. A healthy CAR indicates robust adrenal function and a properly regulated stress response. However, a blunted or heightened CAR may signal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis dysfunction, contributing to chronic fatigue.
2. Thyroid Function Assessment
A comprehensive thyroid panel goes beyond standard TSH testing. We evaluate Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies to assess whether suboptimal thyroid function may be contributing to your fatigue. Even if standard labs appear “normal,” nuanced imbalances can still lead to low energy and sluggishness.
3. Comprehensive Nutrient Deficiency Testing
- Vitamin B12 and Folate: Crucial for energy production, red blood cell formation, and nervous system health. Deficiencies can lead to macrocytic anemia, causing persistent fatigue, weakness, and even mood disorders.
- Vitamin D Levels: Low vitamin D is associated with fatigue, muscle weakness, and decreased immune function. We assess both 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D to get a complete picture.
- Magnesium and Zinc: These essential minerals play a key role in mitochondrial function and cellular energy production. Imbalances may contribute to chronic fatigue.
4. Comprehensive Iron Panel
Iron status is evaluated through a full iron panel, including ferritin, serum iron, transferrin saturation, and Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC). Unlike standard testing that may only assess hemoglobin, our approach identifies hidden iron deficiencies that can contribute to fatigue. Low ferritin levels, in particular, are often an overlooked cause of chronic tiredness.
5. HOMA-IR and Glucose Metabolism Markers
The Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) is a valuable biomarker for evaluating how well your body processes glucose. Insulin resistance can impair glucose uptake into cells, leading to reduced mitochondrial ATP production—the primary energy source for the body. Additional testing may include fasting glucose, fasting insulin, and hemoglobin A1c.
6. Mitochondrial Function Testing
Fatigue is often related to impaired mitochondrial function. Our testing may include organic acid tests (OAT), which evaluate metabolites that indicate mitochondrial efficiency, nutrient deficiencies, and oxidative stress.
7. Inflammatory and Immune Markers
Chronic inflammation can drain energy levels. We assess markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and advanced cytokine panels to evaluate systemic inflammation and immune health.
8. Gut Health Analysis
The gut plays a significant role in energy production. Our clinic may recommend comprehensive stool testing to assess microbiome balance, digestive function, and potential gut-related sources of fatigue, such as dysbiosis or leaky gut syndrome.
Why Choose EvoHealth Functional Medicine?
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Our functional medicine practitioners develop tailored protocols based on your unique test results and health history.
- Cutting-Edge Lab Testing: We use advanced biomarkers to uncover the root causes of fatigue.
- Holistic and Integrative Approach: Our treatments may include targeted nutritional support, lifestyle modifications, and stress management strategies.
- Convenient Telemedicine Options: We offer both in-person visits in Kansas City, Overland Park, Lawrence, and Olathe, as well as telemedicine appointments for patients across Missouri and Kansas.
Get Started Today
If you are ready to overcome chronic fatigue and reclaim your energy, schedule a consultation with EvoHealth Functional Medicine. Our expert team is dedicated to helping you achieve lasting wellness through a comprehensive, root-cause approach to healthcare.