Can an untreated thyroid imbalance lead to memory problems? Yes, especially in cases of hypothyroidism, where low thyroid hormone levels can disrupt brain function and cause issues like forgetfulness, brain fog, and trouble concentrating.
The thyroid gland makes hormones that help control how your body uses energy, including in the brain. When thyroid levels are out of balance, particularly too low in hypothyroidism, it affects thinking skills. Thyroid hormones act like helpers in the brain, supporting memory, attention, and quick thinking. In older adults, this link is stronger because the aging brain relies more on these hormones and notices changes faster.
Studies show that people with untreated hypothyroidism often have memory deficits. For example, older folks with this condition score lower on tests for memory, attention, and visual skills. They might feel slow in their thoughts, struggle to remember things, or have a hard time focusing. Middle-aged patients report problems with learning new information and psychomotor speed, which is how fast they process tasks. Even mild cases, like subclinical hypothyroidism, can cause subtle issues in working memory and executive function, the skills needed for planning and multitasking.
Brain fog is a common complaint. This fuzzy feeling makes it hard to think clearly or stay sharp. In Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune form of hypothyroidism, low hormones plus inflammation in the body worsen it. The brain is very sensitive to even small drops in thyroid hormones, leading to reversible cognitive problems if caught early.
Not everyone agrees on the full picture, though. Some research on older adults found no clear link between developing hypothyroidism and worsening memory or daily function over time. But many experts point out that overt hypothyroidism, seen in 2 to 5 percent of people over 65, can mimic dementia and cause real declines if left untreated.
Hyperthyroidism, or too much thyroid hormone, gets less mention for memory issues, but the focus here is on low levels since evidence ties them more directly to brain effects. Other symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, cold sensitivity, and dry skin often come along, making it easier to spot.
Treating with medication like levothyroxine can help restore hormone levels and improve thinking, though some memory issues might linger in long-term cases. Early detection matters to avoid lasting harm.
Sources
https://www.consultant360.com/exclusives/revisiting-dementia-s-relationship-hypothyroidism
https://www.restartmed.com/brain-fog-hashimotos/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279005/
https://int.livhospital.com/can-thyroid-atrophy-be-reversed-symptoms-and-treatment-options/
https://www.droracle.ai/articles/594637/can-thyroid-problems-such-as-hypothyroidism-or-hyperthyroidism-cause
https://www.cureus.com/articles/449123-functional-and-cognitive-decline-in-an-older-adult-with-severe-hyponatremia-and-undiagnosed-hypothyroidism-a-geriatric-perspective
https://crabapplemc.com/blogs/thyroid-disorders-explained/
https://youholistic.com/importance-thyroid-health-adults/
