The thyroid gland produces hormones that influence metabolism throughout the body. Too little thyroid hormone is called hypothyroidism; too much is called hyperthyroidism.
Hypothyroidism
Possible symptoms include fatigue, feeling cold, constipation, dry skin, slowed thinking and weight changes. These symptoms are not specific to thyroid disease.
Hyperthyroidism
Possible symptoms include a fast or irregular heartbeat, tremor, heat intolerance, anxiety, sweating and unintentional weight loss.
Testing
Blood tests, commonly including thyroid-stimulating hormone and thyroid hormone measurements, help clinicians assess thyroid function. Additional tests may be needed to determine the cause.
Treatment
Hypothyroidism is commonly treated with thyroid hormone replacement. Hyperthyroidism has several possible treatments depending on its cause and the individual’s circumstances.
Why follow-up matters
Both too much and too little thyroid hormone can affect other systems. Medication doses sometimes need adjustment, so follow-up blood testing is important.
Symptoms alone cannot diagnose a thyroid disorder. Seek appropriate medical assessment.
Underactive and overactive thyroid need different care
Similar symptoms can have many causes, so treatment should follow testing and a clinical assessment. An underactive thyroid is commonly treated with replacement hormone. An overactive thyroid may require medicines, radioiodine or surgery depending on the cause and circumstances. Ask what your diagnosis means rather than adjusting treatment according to a single day’s energy level.
Use medicines consistently
Ask the pharmacist how to time thyroid medicine around meals, iron, calcium and other products. Tell the care team about pregnancy plans and every supplement you take. Excess iodine or products marketed as “thyroid support” can be inappropriate; more is not automatically better.
Practical checklist
- Bring your actual TSH and thyroid-hormone results.
- Ask whether further tests are needed to identify the cause.
- Clarify medicine timing and what to do after a missed dose.
- Agree when blood tests should be repeated.
- Report new symptoms rather than changing doses yourself.
Common question
Can keto or carnivore replace thyroid hormone?
No. Dietary changes do not replace a hormone that the body cannot produce adequately. Discuss nutrition and persistent symptoms alongside prescribed care.
Sources and further reading
Related support
Use our appointment preparation guide, resources and community support to plan your next step.
Sources checked 22 September 2026. General education, not individual medical advice. International service arrangements may differ from South Africa. Featured artwork is illustrative, not a patient testimonial.
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