In summary on Hypothyroidism
- Hypothyroidism is common.
- Symptoms develop gradually. They may be confused with other conditions.
- Treatment with levothyroxine tablets is usually easy and effective.
- Treatment is usually for life.
- Have a blood test once a year if you take levothyroxine tablets once your dose has become stabilised.
Further help and advice
British Thyroid Foundation
PO Box 97, Clifford, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS23 6XD
Tel: 01423 709 707 and 01423 709 448
Web: www.btf-thyroid.org.
References
- Hypothyroidism Clinical Knowledge Service (2007)
- Boelaert K, Franklyn JA; Thyroid hormone in health and disease.; J Endocrinol. 2005 Oct;187(1):1-15. [abstract]
- UK guidelines for the use of thyroid function tests Association for Clinical Biochemistry, British Thyroid Association, British Thyroid Foundation. 2006
Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS and PiP have used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.
© EMIS and PiP 2007 Updated: 2 May 2007 DocID: 4272 Version: 38
Want more info? Read our tips for dealing with an underactive thyroid
Need to know about overactive thyroid? We've got all the facts
Where to next?
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How is hypothyroidism treated?
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How long is the treatment for?
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In summary on Hypothyroidism
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Surgery or radioactive treatment to the thyroid gland
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What are the possible complications of hypothyroidism?
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What causes hypothyroidism?
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What is hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
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Underactive thyroid: Under the microscope
Please leave a comment, tip or story in the box below
Diane Errington, about 1 year
Just found this web site, Can anybody give me do's and dont's on diets. Im have told to stay away from green veg, is this true. Any help appreciated.
Report this commentLinda, about 1 year
For the last year i have been treated for hypothyroidism and am currently taking Thyroxine. This seems to have sorted out the problem.However i find that I am now burping a lot not just after meals but at any time of the day.Does this have anything to do with my thyroid problem or the medication I am taking as I didnt suffer like this before.
Report this commentpatrina, about 1 year
I was diagnosed with overactive thyroid four yeaars ago. 18 months on propylthyouracil worked for about 6 months after stopping the pills. They prescribed them again, but they did not work. Last June I was given radio-active iodine which was successful. I am now trying to find the fine balance, my doctor says my TSH is mid-range and will not increase my levothyroxine (I am taking 100mgm daily) but the last couple weeks I have gone back to exhausted, night cramps so bad that he has given me quinine, constipation, broken/peeling nails, messy hair and just totally run down - I am so glad I have found this site, I am not alone, and will fight on. Will give you update in the new year. Merry Christmas.
Report this commentpatsy, about 1 year
Just read all the details on your site - very helpful as have just been diagnosed with hypothyroid so now on mediation hope it will sort me out!
Report this commentdiane, about 1 year
i found this site very helpful i have just been diagonised with under active thyroids and im just starting my medications many thanks
Report this commentliz, over 2 years
i have been feeling ill for sometime had blood tests etc etc, but nothing had been found , a friend mentioned underactive thyroid , when i read the symptoms most of them are me ! gonna see dr and ask them to check me out so glad i fuind this web site x
Report this commentmanpreet, over 2 years
This information is very gud and helpful to take precautions.THANKS A LOT.
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amanda, about 1 year
I have just had blood tests taken, doctor is checking me out for underactive thyroid, as i have just found this site the symptoms are the same as the ones mentioned fingers crossed as i get the results back next week . And hopefully i will be able to get back to normal again. x
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