## External signs If the [TSH](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=137) values are normal, the person is most likely active and slim. He or she has no problems with concentration and memory, is alert, and is energetic. When this is not the case, it is necessary to do a thyroid checkup, starting with the thyrotropic hormone. This is the course of action for both men and women. ## Processes from within If TSH is elevated, it usually signals that thyroid function is decreased and [hypothyroidism](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=45) is developing. This causes people to have declined in performance, memory, sleepiness, and an increase in weight gain. Many people explain away these symptoms as "everyday things," and do not suspect that the thyroid could be the problem. However, all of these symptoms can and should be corrected. A low TSH value reflects an overactive thyroid gland. This can be the start of thyrotoxicosis on the background of diffuse toxic goiter, autoimmune inflammation, or thyroid adenoma. ## How it affects women Thyroid gland control plays a special role for women. Gross violations of thyroid function can cause infertility. It is important to analyze the thyroid hormone both when planning and during [pregnancy](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=3). Thus, it is possible to recognize and prevent the development of fetal abnormalities. ## No self-treatment The disease is always easier to prevent than it is to treat. Routine thyroid checks can identify the problem near the beginning before it gets worse. If abnormalities are noticed in the TSH values, the endocrinologist will determine the cause and prescribe treatment. Situations involving hypothyroidism will most likely require replacement therapy with levothyroxine preparations. In the opposite case, agents are prescribed that reduce the production of thyroid hormones. ## Hormones in harmony A healthy thyroid also needs support. It functions best when a person is stress-free and gets enough sleep. It is very useful to eat food rich in iodine because it is the main building material for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. It is not necessary to eliminate animal protein from the diet. Finally, make sure to get enough [zinc](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=216), [selenium](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=100), [iron](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=140), and [vitamin D](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarybiomarker?id=187) daily.