Supporting employee health: Thyroid disease at work
Thyroid conditions are surprisingly common, yet often misunderstood – and because their symptoms can be subtle and develop gradually, they’re not always recognised straight away. For employers, understanding how thyroid disease can impact employee health, wellbeing and performance is key to providing the right support.
Understanding thyroid function
The thyroid is a small but essential gland located at the base of the neck, in front of the windpipe. It produces the hormone thyroxine, which plays a key role in regulating the body’s metabolic rate — essentially, how fast or slow our body’s systems function.
When the thyroid isn’t working as it should, it can produce too much or too little thyroxine. Either imbalance can have a significant impact on overall health and daily performance.
- An underactive thyroid is known as hypothyroidism
- An overactive thyroid is called hyperthyroidism
Both conditions can influence how someone feels, functions and copes with everyday demands, including those of the workplace.
Here are some key thyroid facts:
- Hypothyroidism affects around 2–3% of the UK population
- Women are at least five times more likely than men to develop hypothyroidism
- The most common cause is autoimmune-related damage to the thyroid
- Symptoms often include fatigue, weight gain, cold sensitivity, and low mood
- If untreated, it may increase the risk of heart disease and high cholesterol
- With effective treatment, most individuals are able to manage the condition well and continue to perform at work
- Hyperthyroidism affects approximately 0.75% of the population
- It is around 10 times more common in women than in men
- It is most often caused by Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition
- Symptoms may include increased heart rate, weight loss, anxiety, heat intolerance, and digestive issues
- In some cases, protruding eyes and a neck swelling (goitre) may develop
- Appropriate treatment typically helps restore quality of life and function
Both conditions are covered by the Equality Act 2010, meaning employers have a legal duty to consider reasonable adjustments where needed.
What are the symptoms and causes?
Underactive Thyroid (Hypothyroidism):
- Persistent tiredness and sluggishness
- Sensitivity to cold, even in warm environments
- Weight gain despite normal appetite
- Low mood or depression
- Hair thinning or dry skin
- Poor memory or difficulty concentrating
Often, this is caused by an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland.
Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism):
- Feeling constantly warm or overheated
- Weight loss, despite increased appetite
- Restlessness, nervousness, or irritability
- Palpitations or rapid heartbeat
- Diarrhoea or digestive upset
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
Graves’ disease is the leading cause, where the immune system stimulates the thyroid, leading to excessive hormone production.
If someone is experiencing symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, they should speak to their GP for a simple blood test to assess their hormone levels.
Diagnosis and treatment
Hypothyroidism is typically treated with a daily tablet called levothyroxine, a synthetic version of the thyroxine hormone. This treatment is lifelong and requires regular blood tests to ensure hormone levels stay within a healthy range.
Hyperthyroidism treatment is more varied and might include:
- Anti-thyroid medications
- Radioiodine therapy
- Surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid
Some individuals treated for hyperthyroidism may go on to develop hypothyroidism and need long-term hormone replacement therapy.
Impact on work and how to support employees
Both forms of thyroid disease can affect work performance and attendance, especially before diagnosis and in the early stages of treatment.
Common work-related challenges include:
| Hypothyroidism | Hyperthyroidism |
|---|---|
| Low motivation | Anxiety |
| Difficulty concentrating | Digestive issues |
| Fatigue and sluggishness | Excessive sweating or feeling hot |
| Memory issues | Restlessness or trouble focusing |
| Reduced productivity | Irritability or mood swings |
Employees may need time off for medical appointments or short-term adjustments while they start or adjust treatment. In most cases, once stabilised, individuals can return to work with minimal disruption.
How Medigold Health can help
Need support with an employee affected by thyroid disease – or looking to strengthen your organisation’s approach to long-term health conditions?
Our occupational health experts are here to help. We provide clear, practical guidance to support employee wellbeing, reduce absence, and keep your people performing at their best.
Get in touch today to find out how our workplace mental health solutions can support your team.
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