Another good time to take your oral temperature is between 11 am and 3 pm. Do this 20 minutes after lunch which is when your thyroid function should be at its best and temperature ideally 37C.
The patient must also be assessed for signs and symptoms to gain a true perspective of their condition. Thyroid hormone helps regulate virtually every cell in the body. Among its most important functions in our cells is to control the rate of metabolism. If cellular metabolism drops too low, the result is widespread dysfunction that can manifest in a variety of ways. The signs and symptoms include fatigue, lack of energy, cold hands and feet, intolerance to cold, severe constipation, heavy menstrual periods, weight gain, diminished appetite, mental dullness, frequent infections, ringing in the ears, dizziness, loss of libido, headaches, insomnia, anxiety and depression. Symptoms worsen with time; the pulse slows, the skin becomes cool, dry and coarse, muscles ache, there is puffiness around the eyes, hair falls out, the voice becomes hoarse and the reflexes are sluggish. Changes in mood and personality simulating psychiatric illness may occur. The thyroid gland may enlarge, producing a goitre. It is important to note that not all of these symptoms need to be present.