10 Important Underactive Thyroid Symptoms To Look Out For

The functional medicine approach to underactive thyroid symptoms involves a comprehensive evaluation of a patient’s medical history, current symptoms, and laboratory results to identify the root cause(s) of the condition. Here we will explore everything you need to know about underactive thyroid symptoms, and 5 the best supplements that may help as part of a comprehensive functional medicine approach.

Underactive Thyroid Symptoms Check – Are You Experiencing Any of These?

If you are currently experiencing any of these 10 symptoms below, you may be experiencing underactive thyroid symptoms.

1. Fatigue: Feeling exhausted and lacking energy, even after getting enough sleep, is a common symptom of hypothyroidism.
2. Weight gain: Difficulty losing weight or unexplained weight gain, despite a healthy diet and exercise, can be a symptom of hypothyroidism.
3. Cold intolerance: Feeling cold, especially in the hands and feet, is a common symptom of hypothyroidism.
4. Constipation: Hypothyroidism can slow down digestion, leading to constipation and other digestive issues.
5. Dry skin: Hypothyroidism can cause dry, itchy, and flaky skin.
6. Hair loss: Hypothyroidism can cause hair loss and thinning, especially on the scalp and eyebrows.
7. Muscle weakness: Hypothyroidism can cause muscle weakness and pain, especially in the legs and arms.
8. Depression: Hypothyroidism can cause mood changes and symptoms of depression, such as low mood, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
9. Menstrual irregularities: Hypothyroidism can cause menstrual irregularities, such as heavy periods, irregular cycles, or even absence of periods.
10. Joint pain: Hypothyroidism can cause joint pain and stiffness, especially in the hands and feet.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other health issues, and not everyone with underactive thyroid symptoms will experience all of these. If you suspect you may have hypothyroidism, it’s important to talk to a functional medicine practitioner for a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment.

Underactive Thyroid Symptoms – How Can Functional Medicine Help?

Functional medicine practitioners take a patient-centred approach to healthcare, which means they work to identify the underlying causes of underactive thyroid symptoms rather than simply treating the symptoms. This involves a comprehensive evaluation of a patient’s medical history, current symptoms, and laboratory results, which can help identify any underlying factors that may be contributing to the thyroid condition.

The functional medicine approach recognises that underactive thyroid symptoms are often just the tip of the iceberg and that there may be underlying factors that are contributing to the condition. By identifying and addressing these factors, functional medicine practitioners aim to not only alleviate the underactive thyroid symptoms but also improve overall health and prevent the development of further health issues.

One of the key principles of functional medicine is that each person is unique and requires a personalised treatment plan that takes into account their individual biochemistry, genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

Underactive Thyroid Symptoms – What Are The Causes?

An underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism, can have various causes. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Autoimmune disorders: The most common cause of an underactive thyroid is an autoimmune disorder, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. In these conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage to the thyroid gland.
2. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy for cancer treatment, especially to the neck or head, can damage the thyroid gland and cause it to produce insufficient thyroid hormone.
3. Surgery: Surgery to remove the thyroid gland or a part of it can lead to hypothyroidism if not enough thyroid tissue is left to produce the required amount of thyroid hormone.
4. Medications: Certain medications, such as lithium, amiodarone, and interferon alpha, can interfere with thyroid function and cause hypothyroidism.
5. Iodine deficiency: Iodine is an essential mineral that the body needs to produce thyroid hormone. An iodine deficiency can, therefore, lead to an underactive thyroid.
6. Congenital hypothyroidism: Some babies are born with an underactive thyroid due to a congenital defect.
7. Pituitary gland dysfunction: The pituitary gland in the brain produces thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormone. If the pituitary gland is not functioning correctly, it can lead to hypothyroidism.
8. Ageing: As we age, the risk of developing an underactive thyroid increases.
9. Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental toxins, such as pesticides and chemicals, may disrupt thyroid function and lead to hypothyroidism.

It’s essential to note that in some cases, the cause of hypothyroidism may be unknown.

Which Tests For Underactive Thyroid Symptoms Should Be Considered?

It is important to test thyroid function because the thyroid gland plays a vital role in regulating many bodily functions, including metabolism, energy production, and growth and development. The thyroid gland produces two hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which are responsible for regulating these functions.

Functional medicine practitioners often use advanced laboratory testing to assess a patient’s thyroid function, including levels of thyroid hormones (T3, T4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), reverse T3 levels, and antibodies (TPO, TGAb) that may be indicative of an autoimmune thyroid condition.

Here are some reasons why testing thyroid function is important:

1. Diagnosis of thyroid disorders: Testing thyroid function can help diagnose thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
2. Monitor thyroid treatment: Testing thyroid function is important in monitoring the effectiveness of thyroid treatment. Regular testing can ensure that medication dosages are appropriate and can help identify any changes in thyroid function that may require adjustments to treatment.
3. Identify other health issues: Changes in thyroid function can be associated with other health issues such as heart disease, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Testing thyroid function can help identify individuals who may be at risk for these conditions.
4. Early detection of thyroid cancer: Testing thyroid function can help detect thyroid cancer at an early stage, which is important for successful treatment outcomes.
5. Manage pregnancy: Testing thyroid function is important during pregnancy as changes in thyroid function can affect both the mother and the baby. Hypothyroidism during pregnancy has been associated with complications such as preeclampsia, anemia, and premature birth.

In summary, testing thyroid function is important for diagnosis and management of thyroid disorders, monitoring treatment effectiveness, identifying other health issues, detecting thyroid cancer at an early stage, and managing pregnancy. If you suspect you may have thyroid issues or have a family history of thyroid disease, it is important to talk to a functional medicine practitioner  about testing your thyroid function.

Are Expanded Thyroid Tests Worthwhile?

Expanded thyroid tests are often recommended for individuals experiencing underactive thyroid symptoms because they provide a more comprehensive evaluation of thyroid function beyond the standard thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test.

While the TSH test is commonly used as a screening tool for thyroid dysfunction, it may not always provide a complete picture of thyroid function, especially in cases where there are subtle changes in thyroid hormones or when there is an underlying autoimmune thyroid disorder such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Expanded thyroid testing typically includes the TSH test along with measurements of free thyroxine (FT4), free triiodothyronine (FT3), thyroid antibodies (TPO and/or thyroglobulin antibodies), and reverse T3 (rT3). These tests can help evaluate the levels of thyroid hormones, thyroid antibodies, and the presence of autoimmune thyroid disorders.

Here are some reasons why expanded thyroid tests may be beneficial for individuals with underactive thyroid symptoms:

1. Improved accuracy of diagnosis: Expanded thyroid testing can help improve the accuracy of diagnosing thyroid disorders, especially in cases where there are subtle changes in thyroid hormones or when autoimmune thyroid disorders are suspected.
2. Better monitoring of thyroid function: Expanded thyroid testing can provide a more comprehensive evaluation of thyroid function, making it easier to monitor treatment effectiveness and adjust medication dosages as needed.
3. Identification of autoimmune thyroid disorders: Expanded thyroid testing can help identify the presence of autoimmune thyroid disorders such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, which can cause fluctuations in thyroid hormone levels.
4. Identification of thyroid hormone conversion issues: Testing for reverse T3 (rT3) can help identify issues with the conversion of T4 to T3, which can be a contributing factor to underactive thyroid symptoms.

In summary, expanded thyroid testing can provide a more comprehensive evaluation of thyroid function, making it easier to diagnose and monitor thyroid disorders, identify autoimmune thyroid disorders, and identify issues with thyroid hormone conversion. If you are experiencing underactive thyroid symptoms, it may be beneficial to discuss expanded thyroid testing with your healthcare provider.

Which Expanded Thyroid Test Should I Take?

At Samuel Maddock Health, we recommend the Genova Diagnostics Thyroid Plus Test. This is a comprehensive test panel that includes multiple markers to assess thyroid function and thyroid-related issues. The test includes measurements of TSH, free T4, free T3, reverse T3, thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb), thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb), and iodine.

Here are the steps to follow for testing your thyroid using the Genova Diagnostics Thyroid Plus Test:

1. Contact Us. Samuel Maddock Health are authorised to order the Genova Diagnostics Thyroid Plus Test. We provide you with all the necessary instructions to prepare for the test.
2. You will be required to fast for 12 hours before the test, so plan your meals accordingly. It is recommended that you drink plenty of water during this time.
3. The test will require a blood sample. A phlebotomist will draw blood from your arm, which will then be sent to the laboratory for testing.
4. Once the laboratory receives the blood sample, they will analyse the various markers included in the Thyroid Plus Test panel.
5. The laboratory will generate a comprehensive report that includes the results of each marker measured, along with reference ranges and interpretive information.
6. Samuel Maddock Health will then review the test results with you and provide recommendations for treatment or further testing, if necessary.

It is important to note that the Genova Diagnostics Thyroid Plus Test is a specialised test that requires the expertise of a healthcare provider to interpret and make treatment recommendations. If you suspect you may have thyroid issues, contact us today about your testing options, including the Genova Diagnostics Thyroid Plus Test.

Why are Reverse T3 (rT3) and Thyroid Antibodies Important Tests To Include?

Testing for Reverse T3 (rT3) and thyroid antibodies is important because it can provide valuable information about thyroid function and underlying health issues that may be affecting the thyroid.

Reverse T3 (rT3) is a hormone that is structurally similar to T3 (active thyroid hormone) but has different effects on the body. Unlike T3, which is responsible for regulating metabolism and energy production, rT3 acts as an inhibitor of T3 and can slow down metabolism. rT3 levels can increase in cases of prolonged stress, illness, or caloric restriction, as the body tries to conserve energy. High levels of rT3 can contribute to underactive thyroid symptoms, even when TSH and T4 levels are within normal ranges.

Here are four reasons why testing for rT3 and thyroid antibodies is important:

1. Identify thyroid dysfunction: Testing for rT3 and thyroid antibodies can help identify thyroid dysfunction, even when TSH and T4 levels are within normal ranges. High rT3 levels can indicate a condition called euthyroid sick syndrome, where the thyroid function is normal, but thyroid hormone levels are altered due to underlying health issues. High levels of thyroid antibodies can indicate autoimmune thyroid conditions, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease.
2. Guide treatment: Knowing the levels of rT3 and thyroid antibodies can help guide treatment decisions. For example, high rT3 levels may indicate the need for lifestyle changes, nutrient supplementation, or medication adjustments to improve thyroid function. High levels of thyroid antibodies may indicate the need for immune system support and anti-inflammatory treatment.
3. Monitor progress: Testing for rT3 and thyroid antibodies can help monitor progress and the effectiveness of treatment. Repeating these tests over time can help track changes in thyroid function and identify any new health issues that may be affecting the thyroid.
4. Predict future health risks: Elevated levels of rT3 and thyroid antibodies may be associated with an increased risk of other health issues, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Testing for these markers can help identify individuals at higher risk for these conditions and take steps to prevent them.

In summary, testing for rT3 and thyroid antibodies can provide valuable information about thyroid function and underlying health issues. It can help guide treatment decisions, monitor progress, and identify individuals at higher risk for other health issues.

By using these thyroid function tests, functional medicine practitioners can get a more comprehensive picture of a patient’s thyroid health and identify any imbalances that may be contributing to the underactive thyroid symptoms.

Which Other Lifestyle Factors Should Be Considered?

In addition to laboratory tests, functional medicine practitioners may also evaluate a patient’s nutrient status, gut health, adrenal function, and immune system function to identify any imbalances that may be contributing to their thyroid condition.

Nutritional interventions, such as optimising nutrient intake and addressing nutrient deficiencies, are often a key part of the functional medicine approach to underactive thyroid symptoms.

Lifestyle modifications, such as stress management techniques and regular exercise, may also be recommended to support thyroid function and overall health.

Functional medicine recognises the importance of adequate nutrient intake for overall health and may recommend targeted supplementation with nutrients such as iodine, selenium, and zinc to support thyroid function. This is particularly important for individuals who may be deficient in these nutrients, as these nutrients play a critical role in thyroid hormone synthesis and function.

In cases where an autoimmune thyroid condition is suspected, functional medicine practitioners may recommend dietary modifications such as an elimination diet or an autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet to help reduce inflammation and support immune system function.

Depending on the individual case, functional medicine practitioners may also recommend medications such as thyroid hormone replacement therapy to support thyroid function and alleviate underactive thyroid symptoms.

Underactive Thyroid Symptoms – How Can I Improve My Reverse T3 (rT3) Levels?

1. Address underlying health issues: Addressing underlying health issues, such as chronic stress, inflammation, and infections, can help improve rT3 levels. Functional medicine practitioners may recommend lifestyle changes, such as stress reduction techniques, dietary modifications, and supplements to address underlying health issues.
2. Optimise thyroid hormone levels: Ensuring that T4 and T3 levels are within normal ranges can help improve rT3 levels. In some cases, functional medicine practitioners may recommend thyroid hormone replacement therapy to achieve optimal thyroid hormone levels.
3. Balance nutrient levels: Adequate nutrient levels, such as iron, zinc, selenium, and iodine, are essential for thyroid function. In cases of nutrient deficiencies, supplementing with appropriate nutrients may help improve rT3 levels.
4. Consider medication changes: Certain medications, such as beta-blockers and corticosteroids, can increase rT3 levels. Working with a healthcare provider to adjust medication dosages or switch to alternative medications may help improve rT3 levels.
5. Consider additional supplementation: Supplements such as magnesium, alpha-lipoic acid, and N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) may help improve rT3 levels by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

It’s essential to note that addressing rT3 levels can be complex, and treatment should be tailored to each individual case. Working with a functional medicine practitioner can help identify the underlying causes of high rT3 levels and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Underactive Thyroid Symptoms – 5 Best Supplements To Use

While it’s always best to consult with a functional medicine practitioner before taking any supplements, some supplements may be helpful in supporting underactive thyroid symptoms. Here are 5 of the best supplements to consider:

1. Iodine: Iodine is an essential mineral that the body needs to produce thyroid hormone. In cases of iodine deficiency, supplementing with iodine may help support thyroid function. However, it’s essential to note that iodine supplementation may not be appropriate for everyone, and excessive iodine intake can also be harmful.
2. Selenium: Selenium is a mineral that helps support the conversion of T4 (inactive thyroid hormone) to T3 (active thyroid hormone). Supplementing with selenium may help improve thyroid function in cases of an underactive thyroid.
3. Zinc: Zinc is a mineral that is necessary for thyroid hormone production and function. Supplementing with zinc may help support thyroid function in cases of a deficiency.
4. Vitamin D: Vitamin D is essential for overall health, and studies have shown that low levels of vitamin D may be associated with an increased risk of autoimmune thyroid conditions. Supplementing with vitamin D may help improve thyroid function in cases where vitamin D deficiency is present.
5. Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that may help support underactive thyroid symptoms and reduce stress levels. Stress can contribute to thyroid dysfunction, so supplementing with ashwagandha may be beneficial in some cases.

It’s essential to note that while supplements may be helpful in supporting underactive thyroid symptoms, they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. A functional medicine practitioner can help determine if supplements are appropriate and safe to use in an individual case.

Underactive Thyroid Symptoms – Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the symptoms of underactive thyroid?

An underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism, occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. The thyroid hormones are important for regulating various metabolic processes in the body. Underactive thyroid symptoms can vary from person to person and can be subtle in the early stages. Some common symptoms include:

• Underactive Thyroid Symptoms 1 – Fatigue and weakness
• Underactive Thyroid Symptoms 2 – Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Underactive Thyroid Symptoms 3 – Sensitivity to cold temperatures
• Underactive Thyroid Symptoms 4 – Dry skin and hair
• Underactive Thyroid Symptoms 5 – Constipation
• Underactive Thyroid Symptoms 6 – Depression or mood swings
• Underactive Thyroid Symptoms 7 – Joint pain and stiffness
• Underactive Thyroid Symptoms 8 – Irregular or heavy periods
• Underactive Thyroid Symptoms 9 – Difficulty getting pregnant
• Underactive Thyroid Symptoms 10 – Slow heart rate

If left untreated, underactive thyroid symptoms can become more severe, such as hoarseness, puffy face, goiter, and even coma.

Can TSH levels be in the normal range but still have symptoms of underactive thyroid?

Yes, it is possible to have normal TSH levels but still experience symptoms of an underactive thyroid. TSH, or thyroid-stimulating hormone, is a hormone that is produced by the pituitary gland in response to low levels of thyroid hormones. When the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormones, the pituitary gland produces more TSH to stimulate the thyroid gland. Therefore, TSH levels are often used as a marker for thyroid function.

However, in some cases, TSH levels may be in the normal range, but the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormones to meet the body’s needs. This can occur in conditions such as subclinical hypothyroidism, where there is a mild deficiency in thyroid hormones but TSH levels are still within the normal range. In these cases, other markers of thyroid function such as free T4 and free T3 levels may be used to make a diagnosis and determine treatment.

What are the symptoms of over and underactive thyroid?

The symptoms of overactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism, and underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, are different. Some common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:

• Weight loss despite increased appetite
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Tremors or shaking
• Sweating
• Diarrhea or frequent bowel movements
• Difficulty sleeping

On the other hand, some common symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Sensitivity to cold temperatures
• Dry skin and hair
• Constipation
• Depression or mood swings
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Irregular or heavy periods

What are the symptoms of an underactive thyroid gland?

The symptoms of an underactive thyroid gland, or hypothyroidism, can include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, joint pain, depression, and memory problems. Other symptoms may include a slowed heart rate, hoarseness, menstrual irregularities, and infertility. In severe cases, hypothyroidism can lead to a condition called myxedema, which can cause swelling, confusion, and coma.

Are dry eyes a symptom of underactive thyroid?

Yes, dry eyes can be a symptom of an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism. This is because thyroid hormones help regulate the production of tears, and a deficiency of these hormones can lead to dry eyes. Other eye-related symptoms of hypothyroidism can include puffiness around the eyes, drooping eyelids, and sensitivity to light.

What are the symptoms of an underactive thyroid?

The symptoms of an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, joint pain, depression, and memory problems. Other symptoms may include a slowed heart rate, hoarseness, menstrual irregularities, and infertility. In severe cases, hypothyroidism can lead to a condition called myxedema, which can cause swelling, confusion and coma. Hypothyroidism can also cause a variety of symptoms that affect the skin, hair, and nails, such as brittle nails, thinning hair, and pale or dry skin. Additionally, people with hypothyroidism may experience muscle weakness, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, and a general feeling of weakness or lethargy.

What are the symptoms to having an underactive thyroid?

The symptoms of an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, joint pain, depression, and memory problems. Other symptoms may include a slowed heart rate, hoarseness, menstrual irregularities, and infertility. In severe cases, hypothyroidism can lead to a condition called myxedema, which can cause swelling, confusion, and coma. People with hypothyroidism may also experience symptoms that affect the skin, hair, and nails, such as brittle nails, thinning hair, and pale or dry skin.

What are the symptoms of overactive or underactive thyroid in men?

The symptoms of an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism, can include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, nervousness, tremors, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. Other symptoms may include increased appetite, diarrhea, heat intolerance, and a goiter (enlarged thyroid gland). In contrast, the symptoms of an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, joint pain, depression, and memory problems. Men with hypothyroidism may also experience symptoms related to sexual function, such as decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.

What are the symptoms of an overactive or underactive thyroid?

The symptoms of an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism, can include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, nervousness, tremors, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. Other symptoms may include increased appetite, diarrhea, heat intolerance, and a goiter (enlarged thyroid gland). In contrast, the symptoms of an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, joint pain, depression, and memory problems.

Discover the root cause of your underactive thyroid symptoms. Contact us today to learn more about how the SMH Metabolic and Hormone Resolution functional medicine package can help you.