Which specialist treats hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism, also called an underactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid does not produce enough hormone for the body's needs. A GP can review symptoms such as cold intolerance, constipation, daytime sleepiness, muscle aches, or cramps, examine your neck, and arrange thyroid blood tests. Treatment commonly involves prescribed thyroid hormone replacement, with follow-up tests used to check whether the dose suits you.

An endocrinologist is a thyroid and hormone specialist. Your GP may refer you if the diagnosis is uncertain, symptoms continue despite treatment, blood-test results are difficult to interpret, or another thyroid issue such as a goitre needs specialist assessment.

Book a GP consultation and take a list of medicines, supplements, previous thyroid results, and relevant family history. Mention pregnancy or plans for pregnancy because thyroid care may need closer review. Do not start, stop, or change thyroid medicine without clinical advice; take it consistently as prescribed and ask how to separate it from supplements or other medicines that may affect absorption.

Arrange medical assessment if symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with daily activities. Seek urgent help for severe drowsiness, confusion, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or fainting. These symptoms can have causes other than thyroid disease, so they need prompt assessment rather than waiting for a routine appointment.

Ask which thyroid tests are appropriate, when results should be reviewed, whether an endocrinology referral is needed, and how to take treatment alongside food, vitamins, or other medicines.