Endocrinology, by video or in person
Thyroid Problems (Underactive and Overactive Thyroid)
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Thyroid Problems (Underactive and Overactive Thyroid)
- Underactive: tiredness, feeling cold, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, low mood, heavy or irregular periods
- Overactive: weight loss despite eating well, a fast or irregular heartbeat, feeling hot and sweaty, shaking hands, anxiety, loose stools
- Bulging, gritty or red eyes, in an overactive thyroid caused by Graves' disease
- A swelling at the front of the neck
- Irregular periods or difficulty getting pregnant
Published Mezo prices. Each links to what the price covers.
The thyroid is a gland at the front of the neck that makes hormones controlling how fast the body works. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) slows things down, and an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) speeds them up. Both are more common in women, and both are diagnosed with a blood test: TSH first, then free T4 and sometimes free T3. Neither can be diagnosed from symptoms alone, because tiredness and weight change have many causes. Both are treatable, usually with tablets. A swelling of the thyroid, a goitre, is assessed separately and can occur with a normal, low or high hormone level.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Underactive: tiredness, feeling cold, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, low mood, heavy or irregular periods
- Overactive: weight loss despite eating well, a fast or irregular heartbeat, feeling hot and sweaty, shaking hands, anxiety, loose stools
- Bulging, gritty or red eyes, in an overactive thyroid caused by Graves' disease
- A swelling at the front of the neck
- Irregular periods or difficulty getting pregnant
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital now if someone with an overactive thyroid develops a very fast heartbeat, a high fever, vomiting, confusion or severe agitation; if someone with an underactive thyroid becomes very drowsy, confused and cold; or if a neck swelling makes it hard to breathe or swallow. See a doctor for a thyroid blood test if you have had several of the symptoms above for weeks, have a family history of thyroid disease, a neck swelling, or difficulty conceiving. If you take thyroid tablets, have your levels checked as your doctor advises, and plan pregnancy with your doctor.
Treatment options
- A blood test: TSH, then free T4 and sometimes free T3
- Levothyroxine tablets for an underactive thyroid, with the dose adjusted by blood tests
- Anti-thyroid tablets for an overactive thyroid, with a beta-blocker for symptoms while they start to work
- Radioactive iodine for some overactive thyroids
- Surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid for some overactive glands, large goitres or suspicious nodules
- An endocrinologist's review when the cause is unclear, in pregnancy, or when treatment is not working
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Which test checks the thyroid?
Thyroid function tests: TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) first, with free T4 and sometimes free T3. A high TSH usually points to an underactive thyroid and a low TSH to an overactive one, but a doctor should read the result alongside your symptoms and any medicines you take.
Is thyroid treatment for life?
For an underactive thyroid, usually yes: a daily tablet, with blood tests to keep the dose right. For an overactive thyroid, tablets are sometimes given for a period and then stopped, and radioactive iodine or surgery may be offered if it comes back.
Can a thyroid problem be managed by video?
Much of it can. A doctor can review your symptoms and blood results by video, adjust tablets and arrange repeat tests. A new lump or swelling in the neck needs an examination in person and usually an ultrasound scan.
Need Help?
A doctor on a video call, who advises on the right test and treatment, and tells you if you need to be seen in person.
See a doctor by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified endocrinology specialist near you.
Endocrinology in Lagos →Endocrinology in Abuja →Endocrinology in Port Harcourt →Endocrinology in Jos →Endocrinology in Ibadan →Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Thyroid disease: assessment and management (NG145). National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Clinical guideline.
- Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). NHS. Patient information.
- Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 24 October 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.