Your doctor will order a blood test to measure your hormone levels. They might also test for antibodies, which would indicate an infection, or perform a radioactive iodine uptake scan to see if your thyroid is overactive. [2] X Research source When the pituitary gland produces higher levels of TSH, it usually means the thyroid isn’t making enough hormones. Low TSH levels usually mean the thyroid is producing too many hormones. It usually takes 24 to 48 hours to get results for TSH and thyroid hormone tests.
You might not be able to stop taking certain medications, so your doctor might just monitor your condition. If you experience unusual symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat or unexplained weight loss, your doctor might recommend thyroid medication.
You’ll likely see your doctor again within 6 weeks of changing your dose. They’ll check your levels and, if necessary, make further adjustments. High or low hormone levels are common during treatment for hypothyroidism, and finding the right balance can take time. If you take thyroid medication, you’ll most likely have your hormone levels tested every 6 to 12 months once the levels are stable and every 6 to 8 weeks after a dose change.
Low TSH levels can be caused by pituitary gland tumors, which are almost always benign (not cancerous). If a tumor is detected, you’ll receive hormone or radiation therapy, or have it surgically removed. [6] X Research source Cases of low TSH levels due to a pituitary gland disorder are rare. Most of the time, an overactive thyroid gland is the issue.
Antithyroid medications, such as methimazole, are usually taken with food every 8 hours. [8] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source Tell your doctor if you experience any side effects, such as upset stomach, skin rash, joint or muscle pain, and unusual numbness, tingling, or burning. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding can’t undergo radioactive iodine therapy. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding and need to manage hyperthyroidism, you’ll need to take antithyroid medications until it’s safe to undergo radioactive iodine therapy.
You might experience a sore throat for a few days after taking radioactive iodine. Most of the radioactive material will be absorbed by your thyroid within 2 days, but your bodily fluids will also temporarily contain small amounts after treatment. You’ll need to take precautions to prevent exposing others to these traces of radioactive iodine. Your doctor will most likely instruct you to avoid contact with small children and pregnant women for several days. You should also avoid prolonged periods of intimate contact with other people for 3 to 4 days.
Side effects can include dizziness, fatigue, diarrhea, and constipation. Call your doctor if any side effects are severe or persistent. [11] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
Thyroid surgery usually takes around 2 hours, and many people are able to go home the same day as the operation. After undergoing surgery, you’ll need to avoid strenuous activity for at least 2 weeks. Follow your doctor’s postoperative instructions, and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments. [13] X Research source
After starting medication for hypothyroidism, you’ll need to have your hormone levels checked within 6 weeks. If necessary, your doctor will adjust your dosage. You might have additional follow-up appointments every 2 to 3 months until your thyroid is regulated. It might seem strange that treatment for an overactive thyroid leads to an underactive thyroid. Hypothyroidism is easily managed with medication, but hyperthyroidism is a potentially life-threatening condition. Treatment for hyperthyroidism is necessary, even if it results in hypothyroidism.
After starting medication for hypothyroidism, you’ll need to have your hormone levels checked within 6 weeks. If necessary, your doctor will adjust your dosage. You might have additional follow-up appointments every 2 to 3 months until your thyroid is regulated. It might seem strange that treatment for an overactive thyroid leads to an underactive thyroid. Hypothyroidism is easily managed with medication, but hyperthyroidism is a potentially life-threatening condition. Treatment for hyperthyroidism is necessary, even if it results in hypothyroidism.
Stick to a low-iodine diet as directed by your doctor. After treating hyperthyroidism, you might need to switch to a normal, iodine-rich diet to promote healthy thyroid function. High amounts of iodine can aggravate hyperthyroidism. Additionally, during radioactive iodine therapy, you’ll need to limit your iodine intake to ensure your thyroid absorbs the radioactive substance instead of non-radioactive iodine. [16] X Research source
Stress can worsen hyperthyroidism and trigger related symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat and shaking. Do your best to manage your stress levels, especially before and during treatment.
Some supplements contain iodine, which could aggravate hyperthyroidism or interfere with radioactive iodine therapy. Additionally, calcium can prevent your body from absorbing medication for an underactive thyroid. If your doctor recommends a calcium supplement, avoid taking it within 6 to 8 hours of your medication.
If you’re not on a low-iodine diet, add calories by eating more pastas, grains, and lean protein sources, such as poultry and seafood. Avoid strenuous exercise while managing hyperthyroidism. You need to burn fewer calories and, since hyperthyroidism makes your heart work harder, excessive exercise can be dangerous. [20] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Your daily recommended calorie and nutrient values depend on your age, sex, and activity level. Learn more about your specific needs at https://www. choosemyplate. gov. Check labels and look up the nutritional contents for any item you eat or drink. Log your caloric intake in a journal or use a fitness tracking app. Cutting soft drinks and other high-calorie beverages is a simple way to cut your caloric intake. Eat more fruits and vegetables, and cut down on fatty cuts of red meat, sweets, and unhealthy snacks.
If you have hyperthyroidism, your body is under constant stress, as if you were running on a treadmill 24 hours a day. Excessive exercise can cause heart problems and other medical issues. If you have hypothyroidism, your heart rate is slow, and excessive exercise is like a sudden, stressful jolt. Once you’ve regulated your hormone levels, moderately intense exercise, like walking briskly for 30 minutes a day, can boost your energy and control weight.
