What it is
The most common cause in Europe is an autoimmune condition (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis), in which the immune system slowly damages the gland. Thyroid surgery, some treatments for an overactive thyroid and some medicines can also cause it.
Because symptoms come on slowly and are common in everyday life, it is often found through a blood test done for another reason.
Common signs
- Tiredness and feeling cold
- Weight gain
- Dry skin and hair, or hair loss
- Constipation
- Low mood, slow thinking, muscle aches
- Changes in periods
How it is usually diagnosed
- A blood test for TSH, the hormone the brain uses to ask the thyroid for more
- Free T4, the main thyroid hormone itself
- Sometimes thyroid antibodies (such as anti-TPO), and an ultrasound of the thyroid
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Every TSH and free T4 result, with the dose you were taking at the time
- Antibody results
- Thyroid ultrasound reports
- Letters from the endocrinologist
Questions to ask your doctor
- How often should my thyroid tests be repeated?
- Should I take my medicine at a set time, and how close to food or other tablets?
- Do I need to tell you if I am planning a pregnancy?
- Which symptoms mean the dose may need changing?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Severe drowsiness or confusion
- A very low body temperature or a very slow heartbeat
- Swelling in the neck that makes it hard to breathe or swallow
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.