Hypothyroidism

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

Hypothyroidism is a condition that develops when the thyroid gland makes little or no thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormones help control body temperature, heart rate, growth, and how you gain or lose weight.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Medicines:

• Thyroid hormone: This medicine will help bring your thyroid hormone level back to normal.
  
  
• Take your medicine as directed: Call your primary healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell him if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits.

Follow up with your primary healthcare provider or endocrinologist as directed:

You may need to return for more blood tests to check your thyroid hormone level. This will show if you are getting the right amount of thyroid medicine. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

Iodine:

The thyroid gland uses iodine to work correctly and to make thyroid hormones. Your primary healthcare provider may tell you to eat foods that are rich in iodine. He will tell you how much of these foods to eat. Milk and seafood are good sources of iodine.

Contact your primary healthcare provider or endocrinologist if:

• You have a fever.
  
  
• You have chills, a cough, or feel weak and achy.
  
  
• You have pain and swelling in your muscles and joints.
  
  
• Your skin is itchy, swollen, or you have a rash.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Return to the emergency department if:

• Your signs and symptoms return or get worse, even after treatment.
  
  
• You have diarrhea, tremors, or trouble sleeping.
  
  
• Your legs, ankles, or feet are swollen.
  
  
• You feel like you are going to faint.
  
  
• You have a seizure.
  
  
• You have sudden chest pain or shortness of breath.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Learn more about Hypothyroidism (Aftercare Instructions)