SS
1
Moderate severity
· Endocrinology
Hypothyroidism
Underactive thyroid · Slow metabolism
The thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone, slowing every body process. A daily tablet usually restores normal life.
At a glance
- Prevalence
- 1 in 10 Indian women
- Typical age
- 30–60 years
- Outlook
- Easily managed
- System
- Hormones
Reviewed by a practising endocrinology doctor
What causes it
Causes
- Hashimoto's autoimmune thyroiditis
- Iodine deficiency
- Post-thyroid surgery or radiation
- Certain medications (lithium)
- Pituitary disease
How it feels
Symptoms & effects
- Unexplained weight gain
- Cold intolerance, dry skin
- Constipation
- Hair thinning and loss
- Heavy or irregular periods, fatigue
How it’s treated
Treatment & cure
- Daily levothyroxine on empty stomach
- TSH check every 6–8 weeks during titration
- Adjust dose in pregnancy
- Treat associated lipid issues
- Address selenium if deficient
Staying ahead
Prevention
- Use iodised salt
- Annual TSH if family history
- Avoid soy/calcium within 4 hrs of levothyroxine
Do’s
- Take levothyroxine first thing, empty stomach
- Re-test TSH 6 weeks after a dose change
- Tell every doctor you're on thyroid meds
- Plan pregnancy with endocrinologist
Don’ts
- Skip the morning tablet
- Take levothyroxine with coffee or milk
- Self-stop because you feel better
- Take it with iron or calcium pills
See a doctor immediately if
Symptoms are sudden or severe, getting worse despite home care, or interfering with sleep, work or daily life. Don’t self-diagnose from the internet — book a verified clinician below.
Top specialists
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BZ
2
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3
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Disclaimer ·
This article is educational and reviewed by clinicians, but it cannot replace an in-person assessment.
Medication doses, prevention advice and treatment choices vary by person. Always confirm with a doctor before acting on anything here.