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Dr. Seenia Varghese Peechakara, MD

(47 Ratings)

Specializes in: Internal Medicine (Adult Medicine) and Endocrinology

Professional interests include: thyroid cancer, adrenal insufficiency, goiter , and more.

33300 Cleveland Clinic Boulevard
Avon, OH 44011

(216) 444-6568

Dr. Seenia Varghese Peechakara, MD is an internist in Westlake, OH specializing in internal medicine (adult medicine) and endocrinology. Dr. Seenia Varghese Peechakara, MD is affiliated with Cleveland Clinic and Avon Hospital.

Office Locations

Address:

1926 Bur Oak Drive
Westlake, OH 44145

Address:

33300 Cleveland Clinic Boulevard
Avon, OH 44011

Address:

9500 Euclid Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44195

Some issues Dr. Seenia Varghese Peechakara, MD can help you with:

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a common endocrine disorder that causes symptoms such as acne, facial hair, and weight gain. It is often diagnosed when patients experience problems getting pregnant, because PCOS can interfere with ovulation. There is no cure for PCOS, but there are effective treatments that can lessen the severity of the symptoms.

Despite the name, not everyone with polycystic ovarian syndrome develops cysts on their ovaries. It is also possible to have ovarian cysts without having PCOS. The symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome are actually related to insulin resistance, a condition where the insulin made by the body is not effectively recognized by the cells. This causes the pancreas to release higher levels of insulin in order to keep blood sugar levels stable, and the excess insulin interferes with hormone production in the pituitary and ovaries, causing the PCOS symptoms.

The symptoms of PCOS include:

Weight gain
Acne
Facial or body hair
Thinning head hair
Missing or irregular periods
Infertility

PCOS is a syndrome, which means that if patients have PCOS, they might not have each and every symptom. Even a few of them might be enough to have physicians check for polycystic ovarian syndrome. A doctor might perform an exam and order blood tests to measure hormone levels.

Treatment for PCOS may include:

Insulin sensitizers, which help the body use insulin more effectively, lowering hormone levels. The most commonly used insulin sensitizer is metformin.
Weight loss. Being overweight does not cause PCOS, and PCOS can make losing weight difficult. Still, weight loss can improve symptoms for many women.
Birth control pills to regulate menstruation and sometimes reduce symptoms such as acne.
Fertility medications, especially medications to stimulate ovulation such as clomiphene.
Anti-androgen medications, which work to treat symptoms such as acne and facial hair.
Low-carb diets, which work similarly to insulin sensitizers to lower hormone levels and help reduce weight.
Ovarian drilling or resectioning, surgical procedures sometimes performed if infertility is a persistent problem. These procedures open up the wall of the ovary to temporarily make ovulation more likely.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women. Left untreated, it can increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Fortunately there are many good treatment options available.

Thyroid Problems

Thyroid problems are a group of conditions that alter hormone regulation and metabolism. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower neck, just below the Adam's apple (laryngeal prominence) and larynx (voice box). Despite its small size, the thyroid has an outsized effect on the body by regulating hormones that control metabolism. Metabolism is the body's process of converting consumed food into fuel to power the entire body. Heart rate, weight, cholesterol, body temperature, and even physical growth and development are all affected by the metabolism.

When the thyroid malfunctions, the body is unable to properly process and allocate energy. Thyroid problems, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), cause irregular metabolism. In some cases, the body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid cells for unknown reasons. The damaged thyroid responds by releasing either too little or too much T3 and T4 thyroid hormones. Thyroid malfunctions may also arise from genetic causes or iodine deficiency. Thyroid problems may include:

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease that causes hypothyroidism
Graves' disease, an autoimmune disease that causes hyperthyroidism
Goiter
Thyroid nodule
Thyroid cancer

Hashimoto's is the leading cause of hypothyroidism, which is when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones to stimulate adequate metabolism. The condition is diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and detect Hashimoto's antibodies. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include sluggish metabolism, inflammation, fatigue, weight gain, brittle hair, dry skin, and sensitivity to cold. To supplement impaired thyroid function, patients with Hashimoto's are typically prescribed synthetic thyroid hormone pills. Such patients may need to consume synthetic thyroids for the rest of their lives. Other treatments may include dietary changes, such as the avoidance of certain foods and medication to reduce inflammation. Frequent blood tests can inform patients if their TSH levels are within a normal range.

Grave's disease is most frequently the cause of hyperthyroidism, which is when the thyroid produces too many hormones, overstimulating one's metabolism. The condition is also diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH and detect Grave's antibodies. Elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, sweating, bulging eyes, and weight loss are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Treatments for hyperthyroidism include oral radioactive iodine, which slowly shrinks the thyroid, slowing the production of excess thyroid hormone. Other anti-thyroid medications such as methimazole (Tapazole) also reduce the production of thyroid hormones. Blood pressure medications known as beta blockers can ease the increased heart rate caused by hyperthyroidism. If treatments are unsuccessful, patients may be prescribed a thyroidectomy, or surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid. Some patients with hyperthyroidism may require ophthalmological (eye medicine) treatments such as eye drops, prednisone, and surgery to reduce eye swelling and bulging.

Untreated thyroid disorders frequently lead to goiters or thyroid nodules. A thyroid goiter is a large lump that can be felt near the base of the neck and is made of swollen thyroid tissue or nodules (excess cell growth). Nodules and goiters are diagnosed by CT scan or ultrasound. Obstructive goiters can cause pain, coughing, and abnormal breathing. The most common cause of goiters is hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). However, Hashimoto's is also known to cause goiters or nodules. Goiters develop from continued damage from antibodies to the thyroid over time. At times, a goiter can result from a cancerous thyroid tumor. Most goiters and nodules are themselves benign.

The exact causes of thyroid cancer are unknown. People who develop thyroid cancer may or may not have another thyroid problem such as Hashimoto's or Grave's disease. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include a nodule that can be felt on the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, swelling in the neck, and neck and throat pain. CT and MRI scans are used to diagnose thyroid cancer. There are four types of thyroid cancer which vary in intensity. Thyroidectomy (thyroid removal surgery) is usually prescribed to treat thyroid cancer.

Thyroid problems are often long-term conditions that require some form of treatment. With regular monitoring and medication, many people with thyroid problems are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.

doctor visit	181
hospital care	36
inpatient care	36

**Gender**
Male	68
Female	108

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	148
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	82
From 75 to 84	0
85 and over	0
Less than 65	44

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	66
Stroke	10
Ischemic Heart Disease	43
Depression	24
Chronic Kidney Disease	43
Asthma	11
Osteoperosis	11
Atrial Fibrilation	14
Heart Failure	29
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	14
Diabetes	65
Dementia	0
Cancer	8

doctor visit	222
hospital care	92
inpatient care	92

**Gender**
Male	68
Female	124

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	162
Black	17
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	89
From 75 to 84	41
85 and over	11
Less than 65	51

Hypertension	73
High Cholesterol	65
Stroke	6
Ischemic Heart Disease	36
Depression	32
Chronic Kidney Disease	40
Asthma	10
Osteoperosis	13
Atrial Fibrilation	15
Heart Failure	27
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	17
Diabetes	60
Dementia	8
Cancer	0

doctor visit	218

**Gender**
Male	98
Female	210

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	262
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	156
From 75 to 84	64
85 and over	26
Less than 65	62

Hypertension	65
High Cholesterol	55
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	26
Depression	18
Chronic Kidney Disease	31
Asthma	11
Osteoperosis	11
Atrial Fibrilation	13
Heart Failure	14
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	12
Diabetes	55
Dementia	0
Cancer	0

aspiration	12
diagnostic procedures	12
doctor visit	294
image guided procedures	12
minimally invasive procedures	12
minor procedures	12

**Gender**
Male	71
Female	124

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	178
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	114
From 75 to 84	39
85 and over	15
Less than 65	27

Hypertension	68
High Cholesterol	54
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	28
Depression	17
Chronic Kidney Disease	47
Asthma	14
Osteoperosis	11
Atrial Fibrilation	13
Heart Failure	15
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	9
Diabetes	62
Dementia	7
Cancer	7

doctor visit	379

**Gender**
Male	89
Female	173

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	241
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	136
From 75 to 84	78
85 and over	13
Less than 65	35

Hypertension	70
High Cholesterol	54
Stroke	5
Ischemic Heart Disease	30
Depression	23
Chronic Kidney Disease	47
Asthma	8
Osteoperosis	12
Atrial Fibrilation	10
Heart Failure	13
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	12
Diabetes	55
Dementia	7
Cancer	9

aspiration	10
diagnostic procedures	10
doctor visit	407
image guided procedures	10
minimally invasive procedures	10
minor procedures	10

**Gender**
Male	98
Female	200

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	269
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	12
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	163
From 75 to 84	88
85 and over	12
Less than 65	35

Hypertension	67
High Cholesterol	57
Stroke	8
Ischemic Heart Disease	34
Depression	24
Chronic Kidney Disease	47
Asthma	8
Osteoperosis	16
Atrial Fibrilation	12
Heart Failure	15
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	11
Diabetes	56
Dementia	8
Cancer	9

doctor visit	412
hospital care	48
inpatient care	48

**Gender**
Male	121
Female	204

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	283
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	18
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	165
From 75 to 84	102
85 and over	17
Less than 65	41

Hypertension	72
High Cholesterol	65
Stroke	5
Ischemic Heart Disease	33
Depression	26
Chronic Kidney Disease	52
Asthma	8
Osteoperosis	15
Atrial Fibrilation	14
Heart Failure	20
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	13
Diabetes	59
Dementia	9
Cancer	11

doctor visit	233
hospital care	36
inpatient care	36

**Gender**
Male	114
Female	169

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	259
Black	0
Hispanic	0
Asian	0
Other	11
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	148
From 75 to 84	89
85 and over	17
Less than 65	29

Hypertension	73
High Cholesterol	63
Stroke	6
Ischemic Heart Disease	39
Depression	26
Chronic Kidney Disease	56
Asthma	8
Osteoperosis	12
Atrial Fibrilation	13
Heart Failure	19
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	11
Diabetes	61
Dementia	8
Cancer	10

doctor visit	419
hospital care	23
inpatient care	23

Average Medicare Procedure Volume From 2013 - 2021

Volume of procedures performed by Dr. Seenia Varghese Peechakara, MD for Medicare patients.

The highest averages for the top procedures that Dr. Seenia Varghese Peechakara, MD treated as an internist in Westlake, OH were hospital care, inpatient care, minor procedures and minimally invasive procedures.

aspiration	11
diagnostic procedures	11
doctor visit	307
hospital care	47
image guided procedures	11
inpatient care	47
minimally invasive procedures	11
minor procedures	11

Average Medicare Patient Data From 2013 - 2021

Information about Medicare patients treated by Dr. Seenia Varghese Peechakara, MD.

**Gender**
Male	72
Female	131

**Ethnicity**
Black / African American	1
Asian / Pacific Islander	0
Non-Hispanic White	180
Native American / Alaskan Native	0
Hispanic	0
Other	4

**Age**
75 to 84	50
85 and over	11
Less than 65	32
65 to 74	105

Average of Total of Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Seenia Varghese Peechakara, MD From 2013 - 2021

The highest averages of the most common conditions of Medicare patients that Dr. Seenia Varghese Peechakara, MD treated were hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol and chronic kidney disease.

Hypertension	56
High Cholesterol	47
Stroke	4
Ischemic Heart Disease	26
Depression	19
Chronic Kidney Disease	36
Asthma	7
Osteoporosis	10
Heart Failure	15
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	9
Diabetes	47
Atrial Fibrillation	10
Cancer	5
Dementia	4

Education & Training

She completed residency at Caritas St. Elizabeth's Medical Center. She is certified by the Internal Medicine - Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism and has a state license in Massachusetts.

Residency: Caritas St. Elizabeth's Medical Center (2008)

Board Certification: Internal Medicine - Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Licensed In: Massachusetts

Affiliations & Hospitals

Dr. Seenia Varghese Peechakara, MD is associated with these hospitals and organizations:

Cleveland Clinic

Avon Hospital

Ratings & Reviews

Dr. Seenia Varghese Peechakara, MD has an exceptional overall rating with an average of 4.85 out of 5 stars based on 47 ratings. We collect ratings and reviews of Dr. Seenia Varghese Peechakara, MD from all over the web to help you find the right in Westlake, OH.

4.85

Overall Rating

(47 Ratings)

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General Payments

These charts describe general payments received by Dr. Seenia Varghese Peechakara, MD. Doctors may receive payments for a number of reasons, including meal compensation, travel compensation, and consulting.

**Payments by Company**
Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.	$135 Minimed 670G System $135
GlaxoSmithKline, LLC.	$117 ANORO ELLIPTA $117
Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc.	$110 t:slim X2 insulin pump $93	t:slim X2 Insulin Pump with Control-IQ $17
GENZYME CORPORATION	$80 THYROGEN $80
Novo Nordisk Inc	$55 Ozempic $38	$17
Other	$56 TRADJENTA $12	GLYXAMBI $11	LANTUS $10	$24

**Types of Payments**
Food and Beverage	$531
Education	$24

Biography

Dr. Seenia Peechakara specializes in endocrinology and practices in Cleveland, OH, Westlake, OH, and Avon, OH. Her areas of expertise include menopause, gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy), and aspiration. She is affiliated with Avon Hospital. For her professional training, Dr. Peechakara completed residency programs at Caritas St. Elizabeth's Medical Center and MetroHealth Medical Center. She has a 5.0 out of 5 star average patient rating.