Anjali Iyer Anjali Iyer Asked 5 months ago

What are the side effects of an underactive thyroid?

I was recently diagnosed with an underactive thyroid, and my doctor started me on medication. I'm curious about the condition itself. Before the medication starts working, what are the typical side effects or symptoms of an underactive thyroid?

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6 answers

Shalini Mukerjee Shalini Mukerjee Joined Feb 2026 5 months ago
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An underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, typically slows down your metabolism, leading to fatigue, weight gain, and dry skin. While these symptoms are classic, their severity varies from person to person. It is highly recommended to get a thyroid profile test done and consult an endocrinologist for the correct dosage of levothyroxine.

Suman Lata Suman Lata Joined Apr 2026 5 months ago

I have been managing my hypothyroidism for ten years now. You will feel constantly tired, cold, and experience hair fall, but once you start taking your thyroid pill on an empty stomach every morning, things improve. Don't skip your medicines and get your TSH checked every six months.

Rishabh Joshi Rishabh Joshi Joined Feb 2026 5 months ago

An underactive thyroid makes the body very lethargic and heavy. Along with your regular medical treatment, practicing gentle yoga asanas like Sarvangasana and Ustrasana can help stimulate the thyroid area. Keep your mind calm and give yourself time to heal.

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Consult a endocrinologist

Ananya Nair Ananya Nair Joined Jan 2026 5 months ago

Hey, I totally get what you are going through. For me, the worst parts were the dry skin and my hair falling out in clumps, which really affected my confidence. Just drink lots of water, eat a clean diet, and take your morning medicine regularly, it really helps control the symptoms.

Tanya Sen Tanya Sen Joined Feb 2026 5 months ago

Actually, my doctor recently said my thyroid is slightly underactive because I have been feeling very lazy and gaining weight. Does this also cause severe mood swings and irregular periods? I am a bit scared to start the long-term medication.

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Pooja Hegde Pooja Hegde Joined Jun 2026 5 months ago

I completely understand how frustrating it is when people tell you to just 'stop being lazy.' The brain fog and absolute exhaustion from hypothyroidism can make you feel so low and defeated. Please know you are not alone, and it gets much better once your hormone levels normalize.

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