According to estimates, millions of Americans suffer from hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormone. Due to the wide variety of symptoms, some hypothyroid sufferers may never know they have the condition.
Hypothyroidism is a condition that is associated with a lowered metabolic rate. Because thyroid hormones are so important for every cell in the body, 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.
What are the signs of an under-active thyroid?
- 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
- Muscle cramps and bone pain
- Sensitivity to cold temperatures – With an under-active thyroid, you become more sensitive to the cold
- Development of a goiter – When the thyroid gets stimulated beyond its capacity, it becomes enlarged and visible in the neck
- Inability to lose weight – If your eating habits haven’t changed much, but you start to gain weight
- 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
- Dry, brittle hair
- Itchy skin
- Increased sleepiness
- Lowered libido
Typical Hypothyroidism Causes
Traditionally, low iodine levels were thought to be the cause of hypothyroidism. The thyroid is the only tissue that can take up iodine and iodine is important for thyroid hormone production. We receive the majority of our required iodine through iodized table salt.
Certain medications taken for other conditions, may interfere with thyroid functioning. Genetic factors may put you at risk for developing hypothyroidism. If certain family members have hypothyroidism, 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 frequently associated with a thyroid inflammation, 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 may also lead to chronic hypothyroidism.
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 think you may have hypothyroidism, talk to your health care professional and determine the best course of action.