Primary hypothyroidism

The patient should be reassured that thyroid hormone deficiency is readily treatable with thyroid hormone.

With the appropriate dose of thyroid hormone (levothyroxine), symptoms will improve.

Daily lifelong treatment with thyroid hormone will be required.

The patient should also be told that a healthcare provider will monitor blood tests to determine if the dose of thyroid hormone is adequate. Initially and while the dose is being adjusted, the blood tests will be done every 4-12 weeks. Once on the right dose, blood testing will be done once a year. It is important that the patient gets these tests.

The patient should be instructed on the clinical signs and symptoms of thyroid dysfunction. Too little thyroid hormone may cause symptoms of fatigue, depression, thickened hair, or constipation. Too much thyroid hormone may cause symptoms of chest pain, palpitations, anxiety, tremors, or hyperdefecation. The patients should be asked to notify a healthcare provider immediately if any of these symptoms are experienced.