Hypothyroidism

What Is the Thyroid Gland?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck that produces thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones regulate energy production, metabolism, cholesterol, growth, mood, heart rate, fertility and normal body temperature.

Common Causes

• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (autoimmune thyroid disease)
• Thyroid surgery
• Radioactive iodine treatment
• Iodine deficiency
• Medications such as lithium and amiodarone
• Pituitary or hypothalamic disorders (central hypothyroidism)

Who Is at Risk?

• Women, adults over 60 years,
• People with autoimmune disease,
• A family history of thyroid disease,
• Previous thyroid surgery,
• Radioactive iodine treatment,
• Pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Signs and Symptoms

• Persistent fatigue and low energy
• Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
• Cold intolerance
• Dry skin and hair loss
• Constipation
• Brain fog, depression and poor concentration
• Muscle cramps and weakness
• Heavy or irregular menstrual periods
• Reduced fertility
• Raised cholesterol and slow heart rate

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment together with thyroid function tests. The principal investigations include TSH and Free T4. Anti-thyroid peroxidase (Anti-TPO) antibodies help identify Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Additional investigations such as thyroid ultrasound, lipid profile or other blood tests may be recommended when clinically appropriate.

Treatment

Levothyroxine (T4) is the standard treatment. It replaces the missing thyroid hormone, restores normal metabolism, improves symptoms and reduces the risk of long-term complications.

Taking Levothyroxine

• Take once daily on an empty stomach with water.
• Take 30–60 minutes before breakfast or consistently at bedtime.
• Separate calcium, iron, soy products and antacids by at least four hours.
• Do not stop medication without medical advice.

Monitoring

Thyroid function is generally reassessed 6–8 weeks after starting treatment or changing the dose. Once stable, review is usually recommended every 6–12 months. Pregnancy and certain medical conditions require more frequent monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can hypothyroidism be cured?

Most cases require lifelong treatment but are very effectively controlled with levothyroxine.

Can I stop my medication?

No. Feeling well usually means the medication is working.

Can hypothyroidism affect pregnancy?

Yes. Good thyroid control before and during pregnancy is essential for maternal and fetal health.

Can I exercise?

Yes. Regular physical activity is encouraged once thyroid levels are well controlled.

Why Choose Our Endocrinology Clinic?

• Comprehensive thyroid evaluation
• Evidence-based diagnosis and treatment
• Personalised medication optimisation
• Pregnancy thyroid care
• Long-term follow-up
• Compassionate patient-centred endocrine care

Book an Appointment

If you have persistent fatigue, unexplained weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, hair loss, menstrual irregularities or abnormal thyroid blood tests, arrange a comprehensive thyroid assessment with our endocrinology team.