Hypothyroidism: when tiredness may come from your thyroid
What hypothyroidism is, its symptoms, who is most at risk, how blood tests confirm it and what treatment and follow-up look like.
Tiredness that will not go away, feeling cold when nobody else does, a few extra pounds with no explanation. These complaints are so common that almost everyone blames work or age. Sometimes that is right. Other times, the cause is a small gland in the neck that is working too little.
What it is
Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid does not make enough hormones for what the body needs. Those hormones regulate how it uses energy, so when they run short, many functions slow down.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), nearly 5 out of 100 people ages 12 and older in the United States have it, although most cases are mild or cause few symptoms.
The symptoms
- Fatigue.
- Weight gain.
- Feeling cold easily.
- Joint and muscle pain.
- Dry skin or thinning hair.
- Menstrual changes or fertility problems.
- A slower heart rate.
- Depression.
It usually progresses slowly, and symptoms can take months or years to show. And because they are so common, having them does not mean the thyroid is the problem.
Who is most at risk
Women are much more likely than men to have it, and the risk rises after age 60. These count too:
- Family members with thyroid disease.
- Past thyroid problems or treatments.
- Radiation to the neck or chest.
- A recent pregnancy.
- Conditions such as diabetes, celiac disease or lupus.
How it is confirmed
Symptoms alone are not enough for a diagnosis. Your doctor uses thyroid blood tests and, if needed, imaging to confirm it and find the cause.
How it is treated
Treatment replaces the missing hormone, usually with levothyroxine, a medicine often taken in the morning before eating, as your doctor directs.
Follow-up is part of the treatment:
- A blood test about 6 to 8 weeks after starting.
- Dose adjustments and repeat tests as needed.
- Once the dose is stable, a test at 6 months and then once a year.
Never stop your medicine without talking to your doctor first.
If you are pregnant or trying to be
Left untreated, hypothyroidism during pregnancy can affect both mother and baby. Many women on thyroid hormone need a higher dose during pregnancy, so call your doctor as soon as you find out you are pregnant.
Why it is not worth letting it slide
Hypothyroidism can contribute to high cholesterol. And in rare cases, when it is severe and untreated, it can lead to a life-threatening emergency called myxedema coma. With treatment and follow-up, on the other hand, it can be kept under control.
How we handle it at the clinic
If you have symptoms or risk factors, tell us. At our family medicine clinic we order the labs, explain the result and follow your thyroid with tests and medication adjustments. All in English or Spanish.
Sources
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid).
This article is general information about our clinic and about hypothyroidism. It is not medical advice and does not replace a consultation with a professional. Do not change or stop your medications without talking to your doctor. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.