Thyroid disorders happen when the thyroid gland makes too little hormone (hypothyroidism) or too much (hyperthyroidism). They are diagnosed with a simple TSH and thyroid hormone blood test. Dr Sujith Chadala at Continental Hospitals, Gachibowli explains your results, starts and adjusts treatment, and monitors your levels over time.
Information from the practice of Dr Sujith Chadala, MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Overview
The thyroid controls how fast the body uses energy. When it is underactive, people often feel tired, cold, gain weight and notice dry skin or constipation. When it is overactive, they may lose weight, feel anxious, sweat more and notice a fast heartbeat.
Hypothyroidism is especially common in women and can affect fertility and pregnancy, so it is checked carefully before and during pregnancy. Mild changes in TSH do not always need medicine — the decision depends on your symptoms, antibodies, age and plans.
Treatment is usually a daily tablet with the dose adjusted by blood tests. Swellings of the thyroid (goitre or nodules) are evaluated with ultrasound and referred to the surgical or endocrine team where required.
What this covers
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
- Subclinical (borderline) thyroid changes
- Thyroid problems before and during pregnancy
- Goitre and thyroid nodules — initial evaluation
- Adjusting thyroid tablet doses
When should you see a doctor?
- A TSH result outside the normal range on a report
- Tiredness, weight gain, feeling cold, hair fall or constipation
- Palpitations, tremor, weight loss or heat intolerance
- A swelling in the front of the neck
- Planning a pregnancy with a history of thyroid problems
How care works
- 1
Read the reports together
TSH, free T4 and, where useful, thyroid antibodies are interpreted alongside your symptoms.
- 2
Decide whether to treat
Not every abnormal value needs medicine. You will know why treatment is or is not started.
- 3
Dose and timing
Thyroid tablets work best on an empty stomach at the same time daily, away from calcium and iron — explained step by step.
- 4
Monitor
Repeat tests after six to eight weeks, then at longer intervals once the dose is stable.
Emergency warning signs
Call 108 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately if you notice:
- Very fast or irregular heartbeat with fever, agitation or confusion
- Severe drowsiness, very slow pulse or low body temperature in a person with known hypothyroidism
- Rapidly enlarging neck swelling or difficulty breathing or swallowing
Before your visit
- All previous thyroid reports so trends can be compared
- Your thyroid tablet strip and the time you take it
- For blood tests: take the thyroid tablet after the sample is drawn on that day, unless advised otherwise
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal TSH level?
For most adults, laboratories report a TSH reference range of about 0.4 to 4.0–4.5 mIU/L. The range is different in pregnancy and in older adults, so results should be read with your doctor.
Do I have to take thyroid tablets lifelong?
Most people with hypothyroidism due to autoimmune thyroiditis need long-term treatment. Some temporary thyroid changes, such as after pregnancy or a viral illness, may settle and need only monitoring.
Can thyroid problems cause weight gain?
An underactive thyroid can cause modest weight gain, mostly from fluid retention. Once levels are corrected, weight usually stabilises; further weight loss depends on diet and activity.
This page is general health information and does not replace a consultation. Treatment decisions depend on your examination and reports. See the medical disclaimer.