Could Thyroid Antibodies Be Behind Your Tiredness? A Guide for UK Patients

Do you feel constantly tired or foggy-headed?

Many people in the UK experience ongoing fatigue, weight changes, or feeling unusually cold. These everyday struggles can easily be attributed to stress or a busy lifestyle, but they may in fact be linked to your thyroid health — specifically, your thyroid antibodies.

What are thyroid antibodies, and why do they matter?

The thyroid gland produces hormones that control your body’s metabolism. Sometimes, the immune system mistakenly targets the thyroid, creating antibodies such as thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb) and thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb). Elevated levels may signal an autoimmune thyroid condition, like Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease, which can lead to ongoing tiredness, muscle aches, weight gain, or mood changes.

Common symptoms of thyroid antibody-related issues include:

• Unexplained fatigue
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Hair thinning or loss
• Dry skin
• Constipation
• Sensitivity to cold
• Low mood or depression

These can be subtle but persistent – and are often overlooked.

How can you check your thyroid antibodies at home?

With our Home Blood Test Kit: Thyroid Antibodies (Thyroglobulin & TPO), you can easily check your antibody levels using a simple finger-prick blood sample. Utilising the TDL Tiny small-volume kit, Mayfield Clinic provides fast, UK-based analysis, with results typically within 2 days.

What can you do while you wait for your results?

• Keep a symptoms diary: noting changes can help your healthcare professional assess your condition
• Eat a balanced diet: focus on foods rich in iodine, selenium and zinc for thyroid health
• Stay active: even gentle movement can boost energy and mood
• Manage stress: mindfulness and quality sleep support immune and thyroid health
• Read more: The NHS thyroiditis page has helpful guidance

Ready to take control?

If you recognise these symptoms and want clarity fast, visit our home kit product page and order your test today. Prefer a professional approach? Book an in-person blood test at Mayfield Clinic. We’re here to support your thyroid health every step of the way.