Feeling tired, cold, or foggy more than usual? Those are common signs of hypothyroidism — when your thyroid gland doesn't make enough hormones. It’s a common condition and, in most cases, easy to manage once you know what to watch for and how treatment works.
Typical symptoms include persistent fatigue, weight gain without eating more, feeling cold, dry skin, thinning hair, constipation, slow heart rate, and mood changes like low mood or forgetfulness. Women may notice heavier periods. Symptoms can come on slowly, so people often assume it’s just stress or aging.
Doctors use a blood test called TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and usually free T4 to confirm hypothyroidism. High TSH and low T4 point to an underactive thyroid. If you have symptoms, ask your clinician for these tests. If you’re on thyroid medicine, regular TSH checks help adjust the dose.
The standard treatment is levothyroxine, a synthetic thyroid hormone taken once daily. It replaces the missing hormone and usually relieves symptoms within a few weeks, though full effects can take months. Take it on an empty stomach, 30–60 minutes before breakfast, or at bedtime at least three hours after eating. Consistency matters — take it the same way every day.
Certain supplements and foods interfere with levothyroxine absorption. Wait two to four hours after taking your pill before having calcium or iron supplements, and be cautious with high-fiber meals or soy products close to dosing time. If you take many medications, tell your doctor so they can time doses correctly.
Diet won’t cure hypothyroidism, but small changes help you feel better. Ensure enough iodine if you have a deficiency (most people in developed countries get enough from iodized salt). Focus on balanced meals, protein for energy, and fiber to counter constipation. Limit raw cruciferous vegetables in very large amounts if you eat them raw daily — they can affect hormone production only in extreme cases.
Special situations: pregnancy changes thyroid needs. If you’re pregnant or planning pregnancy, talk to your doctor — doses often need to increase and monitoring is more frequent. Older adults and those with heart disease may need slower dose changes.
If symptoms don’t improve or you still feel unwell despite normal TSH, ask about other causes like vitamin deficiencies, sleep problems, or depression. Hypothyroidism often coexists with other conditions, so a broader look helps.
Bottom line: if you suspect low thyroid, get a TSH and free T4 test, follow a consistent levothyroxine routine if prescribed, watch for drug interactions, and stay in touch with your clinician for dose checks. Small habits make day-to-day life much easier when your thyroid needs help.
