Thyroid Conditions
The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, energy, temperature and growth through the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Both underactivity (hypothyroidism) and overactivity (hyperthyroidism) produce a wide range of symptoms that are frequently attributed to other causes, delaying diagnosis by months or years. Thyroid nodules and autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto's, Graves') also require specialist evaluation.
What it is
The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, energy, temperature and growth through the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Both underactivity (hypothyroidism) and overactivity (hyperthyroidism) produce a wide range of symptoms that are frequently attributed to other causes, delaying diagnosis by months or years. Thyroid nodules and autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto's, Graves') also require specialist evaluation.
Symptoms and signs
- Unexplained fatigue and weight changes — weight gain in hypothyroidism; weight loss in hyperthyroidism.
- Palpitations, tremor or heat intolerance — suggestive of hyperthyroidism.
- Cold intolerance, constipation and dry skin — classic hypothyroidism.
- Low mood, poor concentration and hair thinning — common in both.
- Neck swelling or difficulty swallowing — may indicate a goitre or nodule requiring ultrasound.
How we investigate
TSH (first-line screen). Free T4 and free T3 for full assessment. Thyroid antibodies (anti-TPO, anti-Tg) for autoimmune disease. Thyroid ultrasound for nodules or goitre. Thyroid scintigraphy (radionuclide scan) where hyperthyroidism cause is uncertain. Fine-needle aspiration cytology if nodule is suspicious.
Treatment options at The Vesey
- Levothyroxine — first-line replacement for hypothyroidism, titrated to TSH target.
- Carbimazole or propylthiouracil — anti-thyroid medication for hyperthyroidism; supervised titration or block-and-replace.
- Beta-blockers — symptom control (palpitations, tremor) while awaiting euthyroid state.
- Radioiodine (I-131) — definitive treatment for Graves' disease or toxic nodular goitre, arranged via our nuclear medicine network.
- Thyroid surgery referral — for large goitre, malignant or suspicious nodule, or failed medical management.
When to see a specialist
- Abnormal TSH on routine testing that needs specialist interpretation
- Symptoms of hypo- or hyperthyroidism despite 'normal' GP bloods
- Suspected Graves' disease, Hashimoto's or postpartum thyroiditis
- Thyroid nodule found on imaging or felt on examination
- Thyroid cancer follow-up or surveillance after surgery
See a endocrinology specialist within 7 days. No GP referral required. Learn more →
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral for a thyroid assessment at The Vesey? +
No. You can self-refer directly to Dr Yogesh Kalaiah, Consultant Endocrinologist, for a full thyroid assessment without a GP referral.
How much does a thyroid assessment cost? +
£350 inclusive with Dr Yogesh Kalaiah — includes 45-min consultation + TSH + free T4 + free T3 + thyroid antibodies. Self-pay and insurance accepted.
How quickly can I be seen? +
Same-week consultant endocrinology appointments are typical. Same-day blood results in most cases.
Will my health insurance cover thyroid assessment? +
BUPA, Vitality, AXA, WPA, Cigna, Aviva and Healix typically cover consultant endocrinology and associated investigations. We pre-authorise at booking.
What are the symptoms of an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)? +
Fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, low mood, brain fog. TSH is elevated.
What are the symptoms of an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)? +
Weight loss, palpitations, sweating, tremor, anxiety, diarrhoea. TSH is suppressed.
How is thyroid disease diagnosed? +
Blood test: TSH (first-line), free T4, free T3, thyroid antibodies (TPO, Tg). At The Vesey, the full thyroid panel is available same-day.
How much does a thyroid assessment cost? +
£350 inclusive with Dr Yogesh Kalaiah — includes 45-min consultation + TSH + free T4 + free T3 + thyroid antibodies.
Book an appointment
When to see a specialist
See a specialist if your TSH is abnormal on any blood test, if you have symptoms consistent with thyroid disease that remain unexplained, or if a nodule has been found on your neck.
Cost and pathway
£350 inclusive with Dr Yogesh Kalaiah — includes 45-min consultation + TSH + free T4 + free T3 + thyroid antibodies. Self-pay and insurance accepted (BUPA, Vitality, AXA, WPA, Cigna, Aviva, Healix).
- Open 7 days including Sundays — 8am to 8pm, no weekend surcharge
- No GP referral required — book directly with our endocrinology team
- Sutton Coldfield location — serving Birmingham, Walsall, Tamworth, Lichfield and the West Midlands
- CQC-regulated — rated 4.88/5 on Doctify from 700+ verified reviews
View our endocrinology services →
Sutton Coldfield · Birmingham · Walsall · Tamworth · Lichfield · West Midlands · Open 7 days 8am–8pm
Open 7 days · 8am–8pm · 0121 387 3727