When to See a Doctor

The only way to know for sure if you have hypothyroidism is to see a doctor. The doctor can do a simple blood test that tells if your body is making the right amount of thyroxine.

Do I need to see a doctor?

Ask yourself the following questions to help you decide if you should talk to your doctor about testing for hypothyroidism. If you answer "yes" to one or more of the questions, it may be time to see your doctor.

Hypothyroidism that is not treated can lead to infertility, problems during pregnancy, heart disease, and other health conditions.

• Are you 35 years or older?

  The American Thyroid Association advises anyone 35 years and older to be tested for hypothyroidism every 5 years.

• Do you have symptoms of hypothyroidism?

• Have you ever had thyroid surgery or radiation treatment to the neck or head?

  These treatments can damage the thyroid gland and may cause hypothyroidism.

• Are you taking medicines such as lithium or interferon or drugs that contain iodine?

  These drugs may cause the thyroid to make less thyroxine.

• Do you have an enlarged thyroid gland or a family history of thyroid disease?

• Do you have other risk factors for hypothyroidism?

• Do you have type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, Addison's disease, vitiligo (white patches on skin), or pernicious anemia?

  People with these autoimmune disorders may also have hypothyroidism.

• Are you pregnant or trying to get pregnant?

  The amount of thyroid hormone your body needs can change during pregnancy. This could put the health of your fetus at risk. For this reason, every woman should have her thyroid hormone level checked before pregnancy or as soon as she learns she is pregnant.

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