What is the primary treatment for hypothyroidism?

The primary treatment for hypothyroidism is thyroid replacement therapy, which involves administering synthetic thyroid hormones to restore adequate hormone levels in the body. This is essential because hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to a range of symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression.

Thyroid replacement therapy, typically using levothyroxine, helps to normalize these hormone levels, improving metabolic function and alleviating symptoms. The goal of this therapy is to match the hormone levels produced by a healthy thyroid, ensuring that the body can function normally.

Other options, such as surgery or medications to decrease thyroid hormone production, are not appropriate for treating hypothyroidism. Surgery might be considered for conditions like thyroid nodules or cancer, while medications that reduce thyroid hormone production would be used for hyperthyroidism, the opposite condition characterized by excessive thyroid hormone production. Hormone therapy here might refer to a range of treatments, but when it comes to specifically addressing hypothyroidism, thyroid replacement therapy is the most effective and direct method.