Health Risks Associated With an Underactive Thyroid Gland November 16, 2009
Posted by janey in : depression self help , trackbackAccording to estimates, millions of Americans suffer from hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Due to the wide variety of symptoms, some people might not even realize they have the condition.
Hypothyroidism is a condition that is associated with a lowered metabolic rate. Since every cell in the body depends on thyroid hormones, a wide range of symptoms can appear. The overlap of symptoms of an under-active thyroid with that of other conditions, can make it difficult to receive the right diagnosis.
Causes of Hypothyroidism
Traditionally, low iodine levels were thought to be the cause of hypothyroidism. Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production and the thyroid is the only tissue in the body that can absorb iodine. We get most of our iodine through iodized table salt.
Some drugs taken for other conditions, may interfere with thyroid functioning. Genetic factors may put you at risk for developing hypothyroidism. If you have family members who have the condition, then you are at an increased risk of developing the condition yourself.
A momentary surge in thyroid output followed by a low output of thyroid hormone is often caused by an inflammation of the thyroid, called thyroiditis. This type of inflammation is usually caused by an auto-immune reaction, in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissue. This condition is frequently seen in post-partum women. The inflammation causes a temporary increase in thyroid production with the associated weight loss. This hyperthyroidism usually corrects itself, but can result in chronic hypothyroidism.
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?
- Increased sleepiness
- Muscle cramps and bone pain
- Itchy skin
- Development of a goiter - An chronically overstimulated thyroid becomes enlarged and shows itself in the front of the neck
- Swollen hands and feet - This is caused by water retention
- Fatigue - This symptom is associated with many different conditions, so not a critical factor for diagnosis
- Difficulty concentrating - When you unexpectedly find it difficult to concentrate and focus while you didn’t have problems before, then a thyroid problem could be the cause
- Inability to lose weight - You start to gain weight despite having the same diet
- Sensitivity to cold temperatures - With hypothyroidism, you become more sensitive to the cold
- Lowered libido
- Dry, brittle hair
The first line of treatment for someone who suffers from hypothyroidism, is medications. Either synthetic thyroid hormone or hormone derived from animal tissue can in most cases restore normal thyroid function. Some people improve their condition by taking a specific thyroid supplement. In addition, certain foods that interfere with normal thyroid functioning should be avoided. If you suspect that your symptoms are caused by hypothyroidism, talk to your doctor and figure out what your best treatment option is.
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