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Thyroid facts

Hypothyroidism & Hashimoto's Disease

Hypothyroidism (Under active Thyroid) is more common in women than men, with estimates that 10 times more women than men are affected. Hypothyroidism is usually gradually progressive with symptoms increasing as thyroid function deteriorates.

Hashimoto’s Disease – Thyroid Auto-immune Disease, usually causes hypothyroid symptoms, however it is possible for Hashimoto symptoms to swing between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Treatment for hypothyroidism is Thyroid Replacement Hormone therapy – Levothyroxine.

Symptoms can also overlap with many other medical conditions and can remain undiagnosed until appropriate testing is performed to make a diagnosis. Hypothyroidism is usually due to Hashimoto's Disease, which is an autoimmune thyroid disease and caused from a generic predisposition – hereditary.

Treatment for hypothyroidism is thyroid hormone replacement, with synthetic Levothyroxine. There are several brands of Levothyroxine available in Australia. Some brands must be kept refrigerated 24/7, whilst others must be kept below 25 degrees Celsius to ensure they do not spoil and become inactive.

The original brand you were prescribed should not be changed. Changing brands can affect your thyroid function blood results and may also cause symptoms and side effects.

Please read Patients Medication Choice of Brand.

If your doctor did decide to change your brand to Eltroxin, which is 10% less active ingredient, dose adjustment may be necessary and regular thyroid function pathology tests will be needed to ensure your dose is adequate.

Choice of brand is individual and should be decided after discussion with your thyroid treating doctor.

HYPOTHYROID SYMPTOMS VARY FROM PATIENT TO PATIENT AND MAY INCLUDE:

  • Lethargy/Fatigue
  • Weight Gain and Fluid Retention
  • Depression/Low Mood
  • Sleep Disturbance
  • Fertility Problems
  • Thinning of Hair and Eyebrows
  • Increased sensitivity to cold
  • Breathlessness
  • Dry Skin
  • Constipation
  • Poor Concentration
  • Muscle Pain and Weakness
  • Enlarged Thyroid (Goitre)
  • Low Libido/ Decreased Fertility
  • Menstrual Changes
  • For pregnant women, there is an increased risk of miscarriage and multiple obstetric complications.

Joining the ATF as a member, provides you with one-on-one support,
information and guidance to help you through your journey.  

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Being aware is important, your thyroid health is essential to your wellbeing and general health, so speak to your doctor, if you have any symptoms or concerns.

If you have any questions or would like information, please email:  info@thyroidfoundation.org.au

Report a problem or side effect of a thyroid treatment or medication

Australian Government Health Department – Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

Investigation of any Problem or Side Effect report is an important way that the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) monitor the safety of medicines, treatments and vaccines used in Australia.

If you believe you have had a Problem or Side Effect from a prescribed thyroid medication or treatment, please register on the link below with the Australian Government - Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

Report a problem or side effect

CONTACT US

Email: info@thyroidfoundation.org.au

Phone: +61 (0) 447 834 724
(If you would like to organise a phone chat, please email to organise a time, thank you!)

Mailing Address: PO Box 7161, Norwest NSW 2153, Australia

OUR MISSION

The mission of The Australian Thyroid Foundation Ltd (ATF) is to offer support, information and education to members and their families through the many services provided by The ATF and raise awareness about health consequences of iodine deficiency and the benefits of good thyroid health.


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