The pituitary gland plays an integral role in the functioning of the thyroid gland. Increased levels of TSH may indicate an underactive thyroid. Before the advent of highly precise laboratory tests, a thyroid disorder diagnosis was largely based on the patient's account of symptoms. But, dosage with thyroid hormone therapy based on such a subjective diagnosis was not always accurate. In addition, improvement from treatment was often measured based on improved hair and skin condition, pulse, reflexes, and the disappearance of goiter or nodules.
Hypothyroidism can be a progressive disease, requiring dosage increases over time.
Maintain regular visits to your physician. Take your thyroid medication daily. Notify your physician of your thyroid hormone treatment before beginning treatment for any other disease, as some adjunctive treatments can affect the dosage of thyroid hormone therapy. Let your physician know if you become pregnant. Notify your physician of any new symptoms that may arise.