Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is usually treatable and the main treatments are:

Most of the side effects of hyperthyroid medication are relatively minor and will improve over time – for example, nausea, headaches, achiness, upset stomach and a rash – but a more serious, albeit rarer, problem can be a sudden drop in the white blood cell count. Agranulocytosis increases the risk of catching an infection and it becoming very severe so anyone on these medicines should be advised that if they develop symptoms suggestive of an infection – such as a sore throat or fever – they should seek medical help immediately.

The amount of radiation in a dose of radioactive iodine is very small, but there are still some precautions that should be taken, including limiting prolonged close contact with children and pregnant women for a few days or weeks after taking it and avoiding falling pregnant for at several months. It is also not suitable for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism treatment usually involves taking daily doses of levothyroxine, a replacement hormone, and the medication is usually lifelong. It can take a while to get to the right dose, so regular blood tests are needed in the early stages of treatment. It should be taken on an empty stomach, and ideally in the morning, because the effectiveness can be altered by other medicines, foods and supplements. Side effects are similar to the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.