Understanding hypothyroidism: How to spot the signs

It’s normal to feel tired or foggy once in a while. But if your energy’s low all the time, or you’re noticing changes in your body you can’t explain, like gaining weight or feeling cold all the time, it could be something more. These can all be signs of hypothyroidism.

Understanding the signs and symptoms early can make a big difference to your wellbeing. And if this condition is affecting your ability to work, APM can support you through the Disability Employment Services (DES) program.

In this guide, you’ll learn what hypothyroidism symptoms to look out for, when to speak to your doctor, and how to get the support you need.

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism, also known as an underactive thyroid, happens when your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to keep your body functioning properly. 

These hormones affect everything from your metabolism and heart rate to your mood, energy levels and temperature.

Low thyroid hormone levels can cause your body’s systems to slow down. 

You might feel tired, cold, and mentally sluggish, and the changes can creep up slowly over time. 

According to Healthdirect Australia, hypothyroidism is a common thyroid disorder. It can usually be managed well with treatment, but many people live with it for years before getting a diagnosis.

Types of hypothyroidism

The main types of hypothyroidism include:

• Primary hypothyroidism: This is the most common type, usually caused by Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune condition where your immune system attacks your thyroid.

• Secondary hypothyroidism: Caused by issues in the pituitary gland in your brain that affect how your thyroid works. The Better Health Channel explains how disruptions in brain signals can affect hormone production.

• Congenital hypothyroidism: A rare type present at birth. It’s often detected early through newborn screening programs and can be managed with lifelong treatment.

If left untreated, hypothyroidism can affect your heart, memory, fertility and more. That's why it’s important to catch it early.

How to know if you have hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism symptoms can come on slowly, and because they’re quite general, they’re often mistaken for stress, ageing, or other health issues.

The most common symptoms include:

• Feeling tired, no matter how much rest you get

• Gaining weight for no clear reason

• Sensitivity to cold temperatures

• Constipation

• Low mood, depression or lack of motivation

• Trouble concentrating or “brain fog”

• Dry skin, brittle nails or thinning hair

• Puffy face or swelling in the neck (goitre)

• Irregular or heavy menstrual periods

• Slow heart rate or low blood pressure

• Hoarseness or a deeper-sounding voice

Some people may also experience memory issues, muscle aches or fertility challenges. These symptoms happen because your thyroid hormone levels aren’t where they need to be, and your body is slowing down.

If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to long-term complications, including heart disease, infertility, and depression, as outlined by the Australian Thyroid Foundation.

When to see a doctor

It’s a good idea to speak to your GP if:

• You notice more than one of the symptoms above

• Your symptoms are lasting, changing, or getting worse

• You have a history of thyroid issues in your family

• You’re pregnant, trying to conceive, or have recently given birth

Pregnancy changes your hormone levels and places extra demand on your thyroid. Healthdirect explains that low thyroid hormone levels during pregnancy can affect your baby’s development, especially their brain.

Early diagnosis and treatment are key to staying healthy and feeling like yourself again.

How hypothyroidism is diagnosed

Your doctor will usually start with a simple blood test to check your thyroid hormone levels.

These tests include:

• TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) – High levels suggest your thyroid isn’t responding the way it should

• Free T4 (thyroxine) – Low levels confirm that your thyroid is underactive

• Thyroid antibodies – These help confirm if an autoimmune condition like Hashimoto’s is the cause

In some cases, your GP may refer you to an endocrinologist, a doctor who specialises in hormone conditions.

Where to get support for hypothyroidism

If your hypothyroidism is making it harder to work or find a job, you could be eligible for support through Disability Employment Services.

At APM, we support people with chronic conditions, injury or disability to:

• Understand how their health impacts work

• Build confidence and plan a career path

• Prepare for interviews and update resumes

• Find work that suits your energy and needs

• Access workplace adjustments, like flexible hours or ergonomic setups

• Stay supported in your new job

Everyone’s experience is different, and so is the help we provide. 

We’ll work with you to find a solution that fits your goals, your lifestyle and your health.

Resources and further reading

• Healthdirect – Hypothyroidism
  

• Better Health Channel – Thyroid Hypothyroidism
  

• Australian Thyroid Foundation – Hypothyroidism & Hashimoto's
  

• Disability Employment Services

About this article

APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.

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