How to Treat an Under Active Thyroid

The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that regulates hormones which affect metabolism and draw iodine from food. An under active thyroid, also known as hypothyroid, may cause symptoms such as extreme fatigue, hair loss, weight gain, and depression. Thyroid disease is easily regulated with a few simple steps.

Things You'll Need

• Thyroid hormone replacement medication

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Instructions

• 1

  Visit a doctor or endocrinologist and request a blood test. The doctor will run tests on the thyroid hormones in your body. Test results will determine prescribed medication levels.

• 2

  Choose a thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Synthetic and natural thyroid hormones are available. Both will help the body to get back to regulating the thyroid functions. Your doctor will determine the milligram level of the prescription.

• 3

  Take your prescription as instructed by your doctor. For example, the synthetic hormone Synthroid and the natural hormone Armour Thyroid must be taken on an empty stomach. Your doctor will determine an appropriate check back period when your blood will be retested. After the test, your medication may be reduced or increased depending on your thyroid hormone levels.