Thyroid abnormalities are commonly considered for complaints including fatigue, cold limbs, fibrocystic disease, dry eyes, weight loss difficulty, and unresolved pain. Speculation concerning thyroid function often persists even in the presence of normal studies. It is not difficult to diagnose an obviously over- or under-active thyroid. It is, however, difficult to prove an under-effective, normal one.

One of the simplest ways to determine if thyroid function is a problem, even in the presence of normal laboratory studies, is to check morning body temperatures. They are preferably obtained before getting up from bed. If body temperature is at least one degree centigrade below normal (98.6 degrees centigrade), on a consistent basis, then restorative treatment should be considered.