Hypothyroidism, also called underactive thyroid or low thyroid, is a common disorder of the endocrine system in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. It can affect both men and women, but women are more likely to be affected than men. Symptoms of hypothyroidism can vary from mild to severe and can include weight gain, fatigue, and depression. With treatment, most people with hypothyroidism can lead normal, healthy lives.
Signs and symptoms
The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism can vary, depending on the severity of the hormone deficiency. But in general, any change in thyroid hormone production can affect several different systems in your body.
Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism may include:
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Fatigue
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Weight gain
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Cold intolerance
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Constipation
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Dry skin
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Muscle cramps
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Muscle weakness
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Elevated blood cholesterol level
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Depression
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Impaired memory
Causes
The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto's disease. Hashimoto's disease is a condition in which your immune system attacks your thyroid gland, causing inflammation and damage.
Other causes of hypothyroidism include:
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Surgical removal of the thyroid gland
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Radiation therapy to the thyroid gland
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Certain medications, such as lithium
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Pituitary gland disorders
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Thyroiditis, an inflammation of the thyroid gland
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Pregnancy
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Congenital hypothyroidism, a condition present at birth
Risk factors
Factors that may increase your risk of hypothyroidism include:
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Family history of autoimmune thyroid disease
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History of radiation therapy to your head or neck
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Certain medical conditions, such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or Lupus
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Being age 60 or older
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Being female
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent hypothyroidism. However, early diagnosis and treatment of Hashimoto's disease may help prevent or delay the development of hypothyroidism.
Diagnosis
Hypothyroidism is typically diagnosed by a blood test. The test measures the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormone.
If your TSH level is high, it may be an indication that your thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone. Your doctor may also order other blood tests to check the levels of thyroid hormone in your blood.
Treatment
The treatment for hypothyroidism is synthetic thyroid hormone, which is taken as a pill. Synthetic thyroid hormone replaces the thyroid hormone that your body is not producing.
The dosage of synthetic thyroid hormone that you need will be determined by your doctor based on your TSH level and the results of your blood tests. It is important to take the synthetic thyroid hormone as prescribed by your doctor and to have your TSH level checked regularly.
Coping and support
If you have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, it is important to work with your doctor to manage the condition. There are also some things you can do on your own to help cope with the condition.
Some tips for coping with hypothyroidism include:
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Get regular exercise. Exercise can help increase energy levels and improve mood.
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Eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and improve your overall sense of well-being.
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Get plenty of rest. Getting enough rest can help improve your energy levels and mood.
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Manage stress. Stress can worsen symptoms of hypothyroidism. Learning to manage stress can help you feel better and improve your overall health.
Join a support group. There are many online and in-person support groups for people with hypothyroidism. Talking to others who are dealing with the same condition can help you feel less alone and can provide you with helpful tips and information.
Complications
If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to a number of complications.
Complications of hypothyroidism include:
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Heart disease
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High blood pressure
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Kidney disease
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Mental health problems
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Birth defects
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Infertility
Living with hypothyroidism
If you have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, it is important to work with your doctor to manage the condition. There are also some things you can do on your own to help cope with the condition.
Some tips for living with hypothyroidism include:
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Get regular exercise. Exercise can help increase energy levels and improve mood.
-
Eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and improve your overall sense of well-being.
-
Get plenty of rest. Getting enough rest can help improve your energy levels and mood.
-
Manage stress. Stress can worsen symptoms of hypothyroidism. Learning to manage stress can help you feel better and improve your overall health.
Join a support group. There are many online and in-person support groups for people with hypothyroidism. Talking to others who are dealing with the same condition can help you feel less alone and can provide you with helpful tips and information.
