Underactive Thyroid Gland - Hypothyroidism

Description of Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is the opposite of hyperthyroidism. Here, the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones. In early stages this condition seldom goes unnoticed; later on, however, when the disease progresses it can cause a number of severe health problems, including obesity, heart disease and infertility.

Symptoms

Hypothyroidism has been called the “great imitator”, because it shows a vast number of symptoms, and can easily be mistaken for something else. One of the first symptoms of hypothyroidism is fatigue, but in time, other, more obvious symptoms develop. These include:

• Weight gain or increased difficulty losing weight
• Cold intolerance
• Pale, dry skin
• Puffy face
• Irritability
• Coarse, dry hair
• Hoarse voice
• An elevated blood cholesterol level
• Muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness
• Pain in the joints
• Muscle cramps and frequent muscle aches
• Heavy menstrual flow
• Thin, Brittle fingernails
• Constipation
• Decreased libido

Because of the constant stimulation of the thyroid gland, this condition may also lead to an enlarged thyroid, more commonly known as goiter. Prolonged hypothyroidism can also lead to Myxedema – a rare but potentially life-threatening condition. Its signs include slow breathing, decreased body temperature, low blood pressure and even (in extreme cases) coma.

Tests & Diagnosis

The diagnosis is made based on the symptoms and the results of the blood tests, measuring blood levels of thyroid hormones and TSH. An underactive thyroid is indicated by a low level of thyroid hormones and high level of TSH.

Treatment

Hypothyroidism is usually very treatable. Usually, a patient is prescribed a synthetic thyroid supplement, which must be taken daily to replace the missing hormone. Blood hormone levels must be regularly measured, especially at the beginning, so that the right dosage can be established.

When used in appropriate doses, this treatment causes almost no side effects. This is particularly important as the treatment usually lasts a lifetime.

Conclusion

Hypothyroidism is just one medical condition that can be responsible for your tiredness. Here's a list of the most common medical causes of tiredness:

• Overactive Thyroid Gland - Hyperthyroid

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

• Iron Deficiency Anemia

• Sleep Disorders / Sleep Apnea

• Fibromyalgia
  

Important!

In most cases tiredness is not caused by a medical condition. The most common cause of tiredness is, quite simply, the way you live your life - the way you eat, sleep, work and spend your free time. Here, you can learn more about the causes of tiredness and how to stop feeling tired all the time.