subject: What Is Hypothyroidism [print this page] Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder that is characterized by the deficiency or too little production of thyroid hormones. In other words, this is a condition in which the thyroid gland becomes underactive due to the decreased production of thyroid hormones, thereby adversely affecting the normal functioning of the body. This in turn may sometimes result in slower heart rates, stress, depression, constipation, and mental tiredness. It can affect any people irrespective of age and sex however with more chances to develop in children and adults, especially in women. There are also instances in which infants are born with hypothyroidism.
Causes of Hypothyroidism
In most cases, hypothyroidism is caused due to problems within the thyroid gland - a butterfly-shaped gland that is located beneath the skin as well as muscles at the necks front portion under the thyroid cartilage. The disorders in the organs such as brain and pituitary gland can also sometimes lead to hypothyroidism. In addition, the causative factors of hypothyroidism can also include Hashimoto's thyroiditis, treatment of hyperthyroidism as well as thyroid tumors, radiation, subacute thyroiditis, and postpartum thyroiditis.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism may include:
Fatigue and weakness
Dry and coarse hair
Muscle ache as well as cramps
Dry skin
Loss of memory
Depression
Decreased sex drive
Weight gain
Difficulty in shedding off weight
Hair loss
Constipation
Irritability
Irregular menstrual cycles
Heat or cold intolerance
Diagnosis and Treatment of Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is curable. But in such situations if it is not diagnosed and treated early, it may sometimes leads to life-threatening conditions such as Myxedema coma and Cretinism. Hence, timely diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism is inevitable for the normal as well as healthy functioning of your body.
With a simple blood test in the form thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), hypothyroidism could be easily diagnosed. The treatment is usually rendered depending upon its severity. If it is initial stage, medicines such as Levothroid and Synthroid would be helpful. On the other hand, if a patient suffers from severe hypothyroidism, the doctor may adopt some advanced treatment techniques such as drug therapy and radioactive treatment.
