Having high thyroid-stimulating hormones (TSH) is an indication of an underactive thyroid, a condition known as hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid does not produce enough of certain hormones your body uses to control important metabolic, or chemical, processes throughout your body. Hypothyroidism can cause fatigue, depression, weight gain, and a lack of appetite.If untreated, it can lead to obesity, infertility, heart disease, and joint pain.

If you have hypothyroidism, you may want to lower your TSH levels so you can lessen the symptoms of your condition. You can take thyroid medication to treat high TSH levels. You can also make dietary and lifestyle changes to address your hypothyroidism.