Hypothyroidism is a condition related to the thyroid glands, it is characterized with an abnormally low thyroid hormones production. Thyroid hormones play a vital role in physical growth, development and in many cellular processes, so inadequate thyroid hormones have widespread consequences in the body.
Causes of Hypothyroidism
- An auto-immune inflammation of the thyroid gland s, called Thyroiditis
- Over treatment for hyperthyroidism (like radiation or surgery) may lead to overactive thyroid glands
- Severe iodine deficiency results in the reduction of thyroid hormones production
- Pituitary gland disorder
- Lithium
- Fetus can be affected during the pregnancy or post pregnancy
Risk Factors for Hypothyroidism
- Anyone can develop thyroid at any age because of there life style
- Hereditary problems can play an important role
- Elderly people above 60 years are more likely to get affected with hypothyroidism
- Being a female and above 50 years of age increase the risk
- Treatment with anti-thyroid drugs is a major concern (example: radioactive iodine)
- Usually many radiation exposures can increase the risk
- Partial removal of thyroid through surgery can be a risk, the surgical process is called Thyroidectomy
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
- Most of the symptoms would take years to develop
- Usually the symptoms of thyroid become more or less effective based on the metabolism rate. That is, if your metabolism gets slower, the symptoms get more obvious
- Untreated hypothyroidism may result in more severe symptoms such as slow thought process, inflamed thyroids, also called goiter and some times it can also lead to depression
- The most important symptoms of Hypothyroidism are lethargy and fatigue
Some more common symptoms:
Weight gain
Bloated face
Dry, pallid and flaky skin
Hoarse voice
Increased sensitivity to cold
Frail hair and fingernails (eyebrows can become thinned)
Constipation
Muscle weakness
Loss off or heavier menstrual period
Stiff or swollen joints
Weak and painful muscles
Higher blood cholesterol level
