Question: In the last few months I have put on 12 pounds and I have felt very tired. I am a woman in my 60s. A friend suggested I should have my thyroid tested. What do you think?

Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Weight gain can be due to inadequate exercise and consuming a diet that is high in calories. This can also make you feel as if your body is a burden, and you feel lazy, sleepy, and tired. However, many medical conditions are also associated with weight gain and fatigue, and an under-functioning thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) is one of them. Please note that 96 percent of obesity is not related to thyroid or other medical misadventures, but is instead due to improper dietary habits, insufficient exercise, immobility, and genetic factors.
Even with an underactive thyroid, usually only about 5-10 pounds of body weight may be attributable to the thyroid deficiency , depending on the severity of the hypothyroidism. You also tend to retain more salt and water that can add pounds also. However, you will need to visit your doctor who will order tests to determine the cause for your current weight gain and fatigue, and offer the right course of treatment.