People on thyroid replacement therapy require synthetic thyroid hormones to replace the lost natural thyroid hormone. Synthetic thyroid hormones will be administered as pills. You will generally start with the lowest possible dose and then increase the dose gradually until thyroid hormone levels stabilize.

As the therapy begins, your doctor will monitor thyroid hormone levels with periodic thyroid tests. If you are taking these medications you will be advised to refrain from taking calcium or iron supplements within six to 12 hours of your thyroid medication. This is because calcium and iron can interfere with the medication's absorption.

Certain medications can alter the needed dosage, including birth control pills, estrogen, testosterone, anticonvulsants (seizure medications), antidepressants and cholesterol drugs. Some other drugs and supplements may also interact with thyroid hormone therapy, so be sure to tell your doctor everything you take.

You should note that you may require higher doses of thyroid hormone during pregnancy as well as more frequent monitoring.

3. Don't blame yourself, but take action

Little is known about the exact causes of thyroid disease or how to prevent it. Don't blame yourself for causing the condition. There isn't anything you could have done to prevent it.

Early detection, however, is something you can control. Catching hypothyroidism early can significantly affect the severity of the disorder as well as your treatment options. This is especially true among newborns who are born with hypothyroidism, and who may suffer from permanent brain damage if not treated promptly.