Unexplained Weight Gain Causes in Women: Next Steps in Houston, TX

weight gainthyroid issueswomen’s healthHoustonhealthcare costsfamily practiceendocrinologyinternal medicine

Unexplained Weight Gain Causes in Women: What to Do Next in Houston, TX

If you’ve found yourself gaining weight over the past year without changing your eating habits, and you’re feeling more sluggish than usual, it’s perfectly normal to feel concerned. These symptoms might be related to your thyroid function or other underlying medical issues. You’re taking an important first step by seeking information.

This post will guide you through understanding potential next steps for getting a professional evaluation in Houston, TX. We’ll explain the types of healthcare providers who can help, what common initial tests might cost, and how to approach your visit with confidence.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Houston, TX

Based on your symptoms—unexplained weight gain and sluggishness—there are a few types of doctors you may want to consider reaching out to:

  • Family Practice Doctor: A generalist who diagnoses and treats a wide range of conditions, including thyroid problems, making them an excellent first stop.
  • Endocrinologist: A specialist focused on hormone-related conditions, such as thyroid disorders, who can provide in-depth evaluation and treatment if needed.
  • Internal Medicine Doctor: Focuses on adult health, including conditions like weight changes and thyroid function, often providing comprehensive care similar to family practice doctors.

Each of these providers can evaluate your symptoms and order the appropriate tests to help identify the cause of your weight gain.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Here’s an overview of typical procedures you might need and what they could cost if you pay out-of-pocket in Houston, TX, based on current local estimates.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office visit, about 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A detailed visit where your doctor will review your symptoms, medical history, and discuss possible causes.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $195.94 (ranges from $146.95 to $244.92)
    This estimate is based on 511 providers in Houston.

  • Procedure: Blood test for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) (CPT Code: 84443)
    Purpose: Measures TSH levels to check how well your thyroid is working.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $31.27 (ranges from $19.70 to $42.84)
    This estimate is based on 50 providers in Houston.

  • Procedure: Free thyroxine (thyroid chemical) blood test (CPT Code: 84439)
    Purpose: Measures the active thyroid hormone circulating in your blood.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $14.64 (ranges from $10.60 to $18.69)
    This estimate is based on 22 providers in Houston.

Visit with an Endocrinologist

  • Procedure: Established patient office visit, about 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Specialized consult focusing on hormonal causes of your symptoms, including thyroid disorders.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $191.94 (ranges from $143.95 to $239.92)
    This estimate is based on 92 providers in Houston.

  • Procedure: Blood test for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) (CPT Code: 84443)
    Purpose: Tests thyroid gland activity levels to identify dysfunction.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $31.79 (ranges from $19.74 to $43.84)
    This estimate is based on 10 providers in Houston.

  • Procedure: Free thyroxine blood test (CPT Code: 84439)
    Purpose: Measures available thyroid hormone for metabolism regulation insight.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $18.90 (ranges from $10.60 to $27.20)
    This estimate is based on 8 providers in Houston.

  • Additional Testing: Total thyroxine (CPT Code: 84436) & Thyroid hormone evaluation (CPT Code: 84479) available, if needed.
    These tests further evaluate thyroid hormone levels for a complete assessment.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office visit, about 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: Comprehensive evaluation of adult health concerns including weight changes and fatigue.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $194.75 (ranges from $146.06 to $243.44)
    This estimate is based on 492 providers in Houston.

  • Procedure: Blood test for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) (CPT Code: 84443)
    Purpose: Primary thyroid function screening test.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $31.38 (ranges from $19.74 to $43.02)
    This estimate is based on 35 providers in Houston.

  • Procedure: Free thyroxine blood test (CPT Code: 84439)
    Purpose: Measures active thyroid hormone to assess function.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $16.69 (ranges from $10.57 to $22.82)
    This estimate is based on 23 providers in Houston.

  • Procedure: Free T3 thyroid hormone measurement (CPT Code: 84481)
    Purpose: Evaluates another important thyroid hormone that affects metabolism.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $26.46 (ranges from $19.85 to $33.08)
    This estimate is based on 10 providers in Houston.

How to Interpret the Cost Estimates

Healthcare costs in the U.S. can be complex, often resembling a marketplace with prices subject to negotiation, similar to haggling for a big purchase like a car or a house.

  • The maximum cost you see is generally just below what providers ask for the procedure — think of it as their initial “sticker price.”
  • The minimum cost is just above the Medicare allowed amount—the price Medicare negotiates and agrees to pay, usually at or below what providers break even on or sometimes lose money.

Understanding this range helps you know that paying the lowest estimate might mean limited extra services or longer wait times, while the highest estimate includes full service but comes at a premium.

Know Your Rights

You have several important protections and options when it comes to healthcare billing:

  • Good Faith Estimate (GFE): If you’re paying out-of-pocket (not using insurance) and ask for a cost estimate or schedule services at least 3 business days in advance, your provider is legally required to give a written estimate of expected charges.
  • Self-Pay Discounts: While not required, many providers offer discounts for paying cash up front. Don’t hesitate to ask, “What’s the cash price if I pay upfront?”
  • Itemized Billing & Disputes: You can request a detailed bill to review charges and question any that seem incorrect, duplicated, or unfair. You’re entitled to see CPT codes and modifiers used on your bill.
  • Many states protect patients from unfair billing practices, especially for uninsured patients, so knowing your rights can save you money and stress.

Taking care of unexplained weight gain and sluggishness starts with a healthcare professional’s evaluation. Here’s what you can do now:

  1. Schedule an Appointment: Choose to see a Family Practice doctor, Endocrinologist, or Internal Medicine doctor in Houston, TX. Contact them to book a visit.
  2. Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, when they started, any changes you noticed, and any questions about your health to discuss.
  3. Discuss Costs Upfront: When scheduling, ask about the expected cost and if a Good Faith Estimate can be provided. This helps avoid surprises.
  4. Follow Through: Attend your appointment and get the recommended blood tests for thyroid function. Your doctor will guide you on what to do next.

Remember, seeking professional advice is the right step for your health and peace of mind.

Need Help Navigating Your Options?

Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and does not replace professional medical advice. Costs are estimates and can vary based on provider, insurance coverage, and other factors. Always consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.