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Hypothyroidism: Care Instructions

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Front view of the thyroid

Your Care Instructions

When you have hypothyroidism, your body doesn't make enough thyroid hormone. This hormone helps your body use energy. If your thyroid level is low, you may feel tired, be constipated, have an increase in your blood pressure, or have dry skin or memory problems. You may also get cold easily, even when it is warm. Women with low thyroid levels may have heavy menstrual periods.

A blood test to find your thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level is used to check for hypothyroidism. A high TSH level may mean that you have it.

The treatment for hypothyroidism is thyroid hormone pills. You should start to feel better in 1 to 2 weeks. Most people need treatment for the rest of their lives. You will need regular visits with your doctor to make sure you are doing well and that you have the right dose of medicine.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

  • Take your thyroid hormone medicine exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. Most people do not have side effects if they take the right amount of medicine regularly.
    • Take the medicine 30 minutes before breakfast, and do not take it with calcium, vitamins, or iron.
    • Do not take extra doses of your thyroid medicine. It will not help you get better any faster, and it may cause side effects.
    • If you forget to take a dose, do NOT take a double dose of medicine. Take your usual dose the next day.
  • Tell your doctor about all prescription, herbal, or over-the-counter products you take.
  • Take care of yourself. Eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, and get regular exercise.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

  • You passed out (lost consciousness).
  • You have severe trouble breathing.
  • You have a very slow heartbeat (less than 60 beats a minute).
  • You have a low body temperature (95°F or below).

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You feel tired, sluggish, or weak.
  • You have trouble remembering things or concentrating.
  • You do not begin to feel better 2 weeks after starting your medicine.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter N862 in the search box to learn more about "Hypothyroidism: Care Instructions".

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.