Thyroid Disorders

Hypothyroidism slows down your metabolism, which can lead to weight gain (usually 5 to 10 pounds of mostly salt and water). However, once you start taking the correct dose of thyroid hormone replacement medication, your metabolism will normalize, and the weight can be lost.

While exact ranges vary slightly between labs, a normal TSH level for a healthy adult is generally considered to be between 0.5 and 5.0 milli-international units per liter (mIU/L).

Stress alone does not directly cause a thyroid disorder. However, severe physical or emotional stress can trigger an underlying autoimmune condition (like Hashimoto's or Graves' disease) to become active, leading to thyroid dysfunction.

Yes, it is perfectly safe, provided your thyroid levels are closely monitored and controlled. Thyroid hormones are crucial for fetal brain development, so your endocrinologist will likely adjust your medication dose throughout your pregnancy.

The vast majority of thyroid nodules (over 90%) are completely benign (non-cancerous). However, if an ultrasound shows a suspicious nodule, your doctor will perform a simple, quick fine-needle biopsy to rule out thyroid cancer.

You should avoid eating massive amounts of raw cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower) and soy products, as they can interfere with how your body absorbs thyroid medication. Always take your thyroid medication on an empty stomach for maximum absorption.