How to Deal With Slow Thyroid

The thyroid is a gland located in the neck that regulates hormones, affecting metabolism, body temperature, hair growth, moods and more. When the thyroid underperforms, it is called hypothyroid. Symptoms include depression, weight gain, change in sleep patterns, loss of sexual interest and hair loss. A slow thyroid may be regulated with a few simple steps.

Things You'll Need

• Thyroid replacement hormone

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Instructions

• 1

  Visit your doctor or an endocrinologist to have your blood tested. This is the only way to know for sure whether your thyroid is slow. The blood test will take measurements of the T4 (main thyroid hormone) and TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) in your blood.

• 2

  Select a treatment. Slow thyroid is treated easily with a daily thyroid replacement hormone. Both synthetic and natural varieties are available in varying dose levels. Response to medication (a reversal of the slow thyroid symptoms) is seen in about a month.

• 3

  Return to your doctor for regular visits (usually twice a year), when your doctor will test your blood and adjust your medication as required. Discuss any symptoms or changes you notice. Continue to take medication as prescribed.