Thyroid Disorders: what it is and how we help

Thyroid disorders at a glance

The thyroid gland in the neck makes hormones that control metabolism, energy and temperature. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) slows the body down; an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) speeds it up. Both are common, especially in women, and both are diagnosed with a simple blood test and treated effectively by your GP or endocrinologist.

Symptoms of an underactive thyroid

• Tiredness and feeling cold
• Weight gain and constipation
• Dry skin, thinning hair and low mood
• Muscle aches and heavy periods

Symptoms of an overactive thyroid

• Anxiety, irritability and poor sleep
• Weight loss despite a good appetite
• A fast heartbeat and feeling hot
• Tremor and frequent bowel movements

How are thyroid disorders treated?

Hypothyroidism is treated with levothyroxine, a daily hormone replacement, with regular blood tests to adjust the dose. Hyperthyroidism may be treated with medication, radioactive iodine or surgery by a specialist. Autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto's or Graves') is the most common cause. For the full list of signs in women and men and how testing works, see underactive thyroid symptoms and overactive thyroid symptoms.

How we support thyroid health in Chiswick

• Blood tests: TSH, free T4, thyroid antibodies, and related markers such as vitamin D, B12 and iron.
• Fitness and nutrition with InBody: managing weight and energy alongside treatment.
• Ayurveda: routine, diet and stress support, never replacing thyroid medication.
• Yoga and acupuncture: for stress, sleep and wellbeing.

What is Hashimoto's thyroiditis?

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common cause of an underactive thyroid in the UK. The immune system gradually damages the thyroid gland, reducing hormone production over time. It is diagnosed with a TSH test and thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies, and is treated with levothyroxine once thyroid levels fall. It is more common in women and often runs in families.

Thyroid problems and weight

An underactive thyroid can cause modest weight gain, much of it fluid, and treatment usually brings weight back towards normal. An overactive thyroid often causes weight loss. Weight changes that continue once thyroid levels are stable are usually driven by other factors, such as activity, sleep and diet.

Thyroid and pregnancy

Thyroid hormones are important for a healthy pregnancy. If you have a thyroid condition and are planning a pregnancy or become pregnant, tell your GP straight away, because the levothyroxine dose usually needs increasing early in pregnancy and levels need regular checks.

What to expect at Omnia

We ask about your symptoms, diagnosis, medication and recent results, and can arrange a thyroid panel with antibodies and related markers such as vitamin D, B12 and ferritin. We explain results in plain language and share anything that needs attention with your GP. Your plan may include nutrition, strength training, sleep and stress support alongside your medical treatment.

What you can do at home

• Take levothyroxine on an empty stomach, apart from coffee, calcium and iron
• Keep up with regular thyroid blood tests
• Tell your doctor if symptoms change
• Eat a balanced diet; avoid high-dose iodine supplements unless prescribed

Related: fatigue and hormonal weight gain. Omnia Lifestyle, Chiswick W4. Book online or call 020 4515 0000.