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Talking to Your Doctor About Hypothyroidism

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Talking to Your Doctor About Hypothyroidism

You have your own health history. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and background with hypothyroidism. By talking openly and often with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

Tips for Getting Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your doctor:

  • Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask. They may also be able to provide more details to the doctor.
  • Write down your questions so do you do not forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for help if you need it.
  • Do not be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About Other Health Problems

  • Could my hypothyroidism be caused by another health problem?
  • Will hypothyroidism cause any other health problems?
  • Could my hypothyroidism be passed on to my children?

About Treatment

  • Which medicine will I need to take?
  • Are there any symptoms or side effects that I should tell you about?
  • How soon after I start treatment can I expect to have a normal level of thyroid hormone?
  • How will I know if my thyroid hormone levels are stable?
  • How soon will I start to feel better?
  • Will my thyroid medicine cause problems with any other medicines or supplements that I take?
  • Is it safe for me to get pregnant and breastfeed while taking thyroid medicine? Will I need a change in my dose during pregnancy?
  • Are there any choices to treat this? What about alternative and complementary approaches?
  • Do I need to worry about gaining weight? Can you give me the name of a dietitian who can help?
  • Should I take my thyroid pill with food or on an empty stomach?
  • Does it matter if I take my thyroid pill in the morning or at night before bed?

About Outlook

  • Will my thyroid start working normally again?
  • How often do I need to see the doctor after my level is normal?

References

  • Getting the most out of your doctor appointment. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor. Accessed May 4, 2022.
  • Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/hypothyroidism. Accessed May 4, 2022.
  • Hypothyroidism in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/hypothyroidism-in-adults. Accessed May 4, 2022.

Contributors

  • James P. Cornell, MD
Last Updated:
2021-11-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.