Do you always feel tired, even though your thyroid levels are under control? Do you struggle with brain fog, weakness, or hair loss despite regular medication? The real issue might not just be your thyroid; it could be your iron levels.
Many patients do not realise the connection between hypothyroidism and low iron, but the link is both strong and often overlooked. Studies have shown that iron deficiency can worsen or even mimic thyroid symptoms.
Nearly 45% of women with hypothyroidism also had low iron levels, especially those who experienced heavy periods or followed vegetarian diets.
How Iron and Thyroid Health Are Connected
Iron plays a crucial role in producing thyroid hormones, especially T3 and T4. It is also essential for converting T4 (inactive) into T3 (active), which your body actually uses for metabolism, mood, and energy.
When your body is low on iron:
- The thyroid struggles to produce enough hormones
- Your metabolism slows down.
- You may feel more tired, cold, or mentally foggy
This is why iron deficiency and hypothyroidism often go hand in hand—and why correcting one can help improve the other.
Similar Symptoms of Hypothyroidism and Iron Deficiency
Feeling tired or low on energy? Both hypothyroidism and iron deficiency share common symptoms, making it hard to tell them apart. Here's a quick guide
- Fatigue:This is a common symptom of both hypothyroidism and iron deficiency. If you are constantly tired despite getting enough rest, it could be time to check your thyroid and iron levels.
- Pale skin:Usually linked to iron deficiency, pale or washed-out skin may indicate low haemoglobin levels.
- Cold intolerance: Frequently feeling cold, especially in hands and feet? This is more often a sign of hypothyroidism, which slows down your metabolism.
- Brittle nails: Weak or splitting nails are typically associated with iron deficiency, though other deficiencies may contribute.
- Slow hair growth:Both hypothyroidism and iron deficiency can lead to thinning or slow-growing hair.
- Shortness of breath:If climbing stairs leaves you winded, this is more commonly a symptom of iron deficiency, due to reduced oxygen transport.
- Mood swings: Emotional ups and downs, depression, or irritability are often linked to hypothyroidism, which affects brain function and hormone regulation.
If you are experiencing a mix of these, it is important to get both your thyroid and iron levels tested.
Dr Batra’s® pro tip:
“When thyroid medication seems to stop working, always check iron levels. Low ferritin can block the effectiveness of your treatment—even if TSH looks normal.”
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