Do lots of people get underactive thyroid, or is it unusual?

It is common: Hypothyroidism is the name for an underactive thyroid and is quite common to encounter in my office. Simple blood tests and find this, and i usually order these in people with specific symptoms, like being cold all the time, more tired than usual, etc. Low thyroid is frequently caused by an autoimmune disease.

Yes, very common: Underactive thyroid is very common, estimated to affect about 5% of the us population. The most common cause is an autoimmune process where your body attack itself. Diagnosis is done through blood tests. Treatment is replacement of thyroid hormone, usually through a pill.

Very common: Many people get hypothyroidism. More common in women than men. Easily diagnosed and managed.