26/06/2026
THIROID DISEASE AND THE WEATHER
Hello Champs,
We have ushered in the cold season here in Kenya for the next couple of months.
For our hypothyroid patients, one of the major symptoms of hypothyroidism is cold intolerance, where you feel cold even when everyone around you seems comfortable.
One of the major vital functions of the thyroid gland is that it is the body's thermostat. It regulates the body's temperature, mood, metabolism among other important functions.
Infact, one of the major symptoms that should point you to seek treatment is heat and/or cold intolerance.
Hyperthyroid patients tend to feel hot even when the weather is cold while hypothyroid patients will feel cold even when the weather is hot.
Hence, With the temperatures dropping, many hypothyroid patients may find that their symptoms become more noticeable. You may experience increased fatigue, brain fog, body aches, low mood, sadness, depression, dry skin, constipation, weight gain, and difficulty staying warm.
Other than dressing warmly, staying active, eating well, and getting enough rest, we encourage patients whose symptoms have worsened to speak with their doctor and have their thyroid function tests reviewed. This may include checking your TSH, Free T4, and other relevant markers.
Some patients find that the cold season reveals that their current medication dosage may no longer be providing optimal symptom control. If you notice a significant change in symptoms, do not adjust your medication yourself. Speak with your doctor, who can assess whether a dosage review is necessary.
The cold season is also a good time to review your Vitamin D, iron, ferritin, and B12 levels, as deficiencies can make hypothyroid symptoms feel even worse. When the sun becomes rare, Nutrients like VIT D in the body tend to decline. Replenishing your body with the right nutrients ensures that you are able to keep your head above water through the season.
For our hyperthyroid patients, cooler weather may bring some relief from heat intolerance and excessive sweating. However, continue taking your medication as prescribed and attend your regular follow-up appointments.
Remember, thyroid disease does not take a holiday because the weather has changed.
The weather can influence how thyroid symptoms are experienced, which is why it is important to listen to your body and work closely with your healthcare provider throughout the year.
So yes, there is such a thing as thyroid disease and the weather.
Have you noticed your thyroid symptoms changing during the cold season? Tell us what symptom affects you the most.
Thyroid Disease Awareness Kenya Foundation (TDAK)
