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  • Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
  1. Home
  2. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)

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 have 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: 

Living better with hypothyroidism

Living better with hypothyroidism

Read our tips to help you manage your underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) Read more

Published: 19th May, 2024

Updated: 27th May, 2026

Author: Anna Woollven

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism

Read about symptoms of an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) and how this thyroid disorder is diagnosed and managed Read more

Published: 11th September, 2022

Updated: 8th January, 2026

Author: Bethany Frost

Thyroid function tests

Thyroid function tests

Learn about how thyroid testing is used to diagnose and manage thyroid disorders Read more

Published: 10th September, 2022

Updated: 8th January, 2026

Author: Bethany Frost

Information about thyroid disorders in BSL

Information about thyroid disorders in BSL

Watch these SignHealth films explaining thyroid disorders in BSL Read more

Published: 26th January, 2022

Updated: 19th February, 2025

Author: Anna Woollven

Psychological wellbeing booklet

Psychological wellbeing booklet

Read our resources to support your psychological wellbeing with a thyroid disorder Read more

Published: 16th December, 2021

Updated: 24th June, 2024

Author: Anna Woollven

Thyroid nodules and goitre webinar- September 2021

Thyroid nodules and goitre webinar- September 2021

Hear from a leading expert about thyroid nodules and swellings (goitres) Read more

Published: 27th September, 2021

Updated: 25th June, 2024

Author: Bethany Frost

Understanding thyroid function tests webinar - November 2021

Understanding thyroid function tests webinar - November 2021

Watch the recording of our 'Understanding thyroid function tests' webinar Read more

Published: 22nd November, 2020

Updated: 25th June, 2024

Author: Anna Woollven

Psychological symptoms and thyroid disorders

Psychological symptoms and thyroid disorders

Read how psychological symptoms can accompany thyroid disorders and possible treatment and management options Read more

Published: 11th September, 2019

Updated: 8th January, 2026

Author: Bethany Frost

Patient journey films - hypothyroidism

Patient journey films - hypothyroidism

Watch people talking about living with hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) Read more

Published: 3rd September, 2019

Updated: 30th July, 2025

Author: Bethany Frost

Guidelines and statements

Guidelines and statements

Find current guidelines and statements about the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid disorders Read more

Published: 28th August, 2019

Updated: 2nd June, 2026

Author: Bethany Frost

Thyroid disorders and pregnancy

Thyroid disorders and pregnancy

Learn how thyroid disorders can affect your pregnancy and fertility: information for women and medical professionals Read more

Published: 23rd August, 2019

Updated: 26th May, 2023

Author: Bethany Frost

Telephone support

Telephone support

Need someone to talk to? Our BTF telephone support contacts are here to listen and chat Read more

Published: 19th August, 2017

Updated: 26th January, 2026

Author: Bethany Frost

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    Read how psychological symptoms can accompany thyroid disorders and possible treatment and management options

  • Your thyroid gland

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    What role does the thyroid gland have in our bodies? Watch our short film to find out more

  • Pregnancy and fertility in thyroid disorders

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