Feeling tired, gaining weight or suddenly nervous? Those can all be signs your thyroid isn’t working right. Thyroid dysfunction usually means the gland makes too little hormone (hypothyroidism) or too much (hyperthyroidism). You don’t need to panic — but you do need a clear plan.
Hypothyroidism often shows as low energy, slow thinking, weight gain, dry skin, cold sensitivity, heavy periods, and hair thinning. Hyperthyroidism can cause racing heart, jitteriness, weight loss, heat intolerance, frequent bowel movements, and lighter or missed periods. If several of these happen together, get tested — especially if symptoms appear quickly or affect daily life.
Start with a simple blood test: TSH. If TSH is off, your doctor will usually check free T4 and sometimes free T3 and thyroid antibodies (anti-TPO) to see if autoimmunity is the cause. Those tests give a clear picture so treatment can fit your situation.
For underactive thyroid, the most common treatment is levothyroxine — a daily pill that replaces missing hormone. Take it the same way every day: on an empty stomach, 30–60 minutes before breakfast or at bedtime several hours after food. Keep calcium, iron, antacids and soy separate by at least four hours — they cut absorption.
Doses vary by age, weight, and heart health. Your doctor will start a dose and recheck TSH in 6–8 weeks, then adjust until levels and symptoms stabilize. Track your symptoms and side effects so your provider can fine-tune the dose.
If your thyroid is overactive, short-term beta blockers can ease fast heart rate and tremor. Antithyroid tablets (like methimazole), radioactive iodine, or surgery may follow depending on cause and severity. Don’t stop or change meds on your own — abrupt changes can be risky.
Small lifestyle moves help: keep iodine intake steady (avoid sudden large changes), don’t take high-dose supplements without asking your doctor, and manage stress and sleep. If you take supplements like iron or calcium, plan them around your thyroid pill time.
Special situations: pregnant people need tighter control and different TSH targets. Older adults or those with heart disease often start on lower levothyroxine doses. Always tell your provider about other meds — many interact with thyroid treatments.
When to see a doctor right away? Sudden weight loss with palpitations, fainting, chest pain, severe weakness, or confusion need urgent care. For slower changes like tiredness, hair loss, mood shifts or menstrual changes, book a regular visit and ask for TSH and free T4 tests.
Thyroid issues are common and manageable. With the right tests, clear treatment steps, and a few daily habits, most people get back to normal energy and life. If you want, list your symptoms and meds before your next visit — it makes the visit faster and more useful.
