Hypothyroidism is the name given to the condition resulting from an underactive thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism can be caused by: autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto's thyroiditis), undergoing treatment for thyroid cancer or to correct hyperthyroidism, from certain medicines and excessive intake of certain foods, a malfunction of the pituitary gland and, rarely, radiation for head and neck cancers. 

If you’ve been diagnosed with hypothyroidism it means that your thyroid is not producing enough thyroid hormone for your body’s needs.

We have several resources to help you understand more about hypothyroidism and how the condition is managed: 

• BTF patient guide to hypothyroidism
• BTF guide to thyroid function tests
• BTF guide to psychological symptoms of thyroid disorders
• Article on living better with hypothyroidism
• Frequently Asked Questions about the Management of Primary Hypothyroidism 2015 
• Patient Journeys – short films where people talk about their experiences of hypothyroidism
• BTF local support groups
• BTF telephone contacts
• Signed information about hypothyroidism - video made by the Deaf Health Charity SignHealth
• Easy read information for people with thyroid disorders - produced by the Down's Syndrome Association

We rely on donations to fund our work supporting and informing people living with thyroid disorders. Please consider making a donation or becoming a member

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