What is an Underactive Thyroid?

At Check My Wellbeing, we understand how easy it can be to overlook subtle changes in your body, especially when they build gradually over time. One condition that can often go unnoticed is an underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism.

This occurs when your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to support your body’s normal functions. These hormones affect everything from your metabolism to your mood and energy levels.

Common Symptoms of an Underactive Thyroid

The signs of an underactive thyroid can vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:

• Constant tiredness or fatigue
• Weight gain
• Low mood or depression
• Sensitivity to cold
• Dry skin and hair
• Muscle aches and cramps
• Constipation
• Slow thoughts or movements
• Brittle hair or nails
• Irregular or heavy periods
• Reduced sex drive
• Tingling or numbness in the hands (carpal tunnel syndrome)

Older adults may experience memory issues or a low mood. In children and teenagers, it can affect growth and may lead to early puberty.

When to Seek Help

Because the symptoms can resemble other conditions or be dismissed as natural aging, hypothyroidism can go undiagnosed for a long time. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s essential to speak with your GP and request a thyroid function test. A simple at-home blood test checks your hormone levels and helps determine if your thyroid is underactive.

What Causes an Underactive Thyroid?

Most cases are caused by an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. It can also result from specific medical treatments, such as those for an overactive thyroid or thyroid cancer. While hypothyroidism cannot always be prevented, early detection and proper treatment are key.

Who Is Affected?

Anyone can develop an underactive thyroid, but it is more common in women, especially those over 40. In the UK, around 15 in every 1,000 women and 1 in 1,000 men are affected. The condition can also occur in children. All newborns in the UK are routinely screened for congenital hypothyroidism shortly after birth.

Treatment and Management

Treatment usually involves a daily hormone replacement tablet called levothyroxine, which restores normal hormone levels. Most people will need to continue treatment for life, but it is highly effective. With proper management, you can lead a healthy and active life.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Without treatment, an underactive thyroid can lead to serious complications, including:

• Heart problems
• Fertility issues
• Goitre (swelling of the thyroid)
• Anaemia
• In sporadic cases, a life-threatening condition called myxoedema coma

Supporting You at Check My Wellbeing

We believe in giving you the knowledge and support you need to take control of your health. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your thyroid, don’t wait. Speak to your GP and get tested.

Stay informed. Stay well.

Check My Wellbeing – helping you understand what’s going on inside.