The thyroid gland does not produce enough of the thyroid hormones. This can lead to weight gain, fatigue, feeling cold, hair loss and fertility problems.
The diagnosis is made by taking a blood sample. If you suspect an underactive thyroid gland, it is best to contact your GP for a blood test. Bring these results with you to the endocrinology consultation. You are not required to fast. An additional blood sample may be taken to confirm the abnormality and/or to perform additional tests to determine the cause of thyroid disease. An additional examination is to perform an ultrasound of the neck region.
After diagnosis, we will discuss the treatment with you. Usually, this will entail starting thyroid hormone (T4 or thyroxine) treatment.
In pregnant women, the thyroid hormone dose usually needs to be increased during the first half of pregnancy. This is extremely important for the baby’s development. It is therefore best to be monitored by an endocrinologist during pregnancy.
Please contact your treating doctor for more information.
