Signs And Symptoms of Hypothyroidism by Paula Trinker

The human body is quite remarkable. It is amazing how many components work together in order to ensure that your body is healthy and is functioning properly. However, there is always the possibility that issues with certain parts of the body can arise, and those issues can lead to health conditions.

One condition that is not unusual is hypothyroidism. This condition affects the thyroid gland, the small, butterfly-shaped gland that lies in the center of the neck. This gland produces important hormones that help to monitor your metabolism. In hypothyroidism, the hormones that this gland secrets are depleted. If this condition develops, it can cause serious side effects if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available, which is why it is vital that you keep an eye out for any signs and symptoms of this condition.

What are the signs and symptoms of this condition? Keep on reading to find out so that you can stay on top of your health.

Symptoms to Look For

Hypothyroidism is a condition that can have serious effects on your health and well being. It you notice any of the following signs or symptoms, it is recommended that you seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Common signs and symptoms of this condition include:

• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Fatigue
• Difficulty passing bowels
• Unexplained weight gain
• Puffy face
• Muscle weakness
• blood cholesterol levels
• Pain, stiffness and tenderness in the muscles
• Pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints
• Hoarseness
• Dry skin
• Thinning hair
• Menstrual periods that are heavier than normal
• Decreased heart rate
• Depression
• Impaired memory

If this condition goes untreated, the aforementioned symptoms will continue to progress and they will become more severe. If it goes too long without treatment, you may eventually experience an enlarged thyroid, which is known as a goiter.

An advanced condition of hypothyroidism, known as myxedema, though unusual, it can be life-threatening. If this happens, you’ll start to experience more severe signs and symptoms, including:

• Lowered blood pressure
• Decreased breathing
• Decreased body temperature
• Unresponsiveness, or potentially even going into a coma

Why It Happens

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of this condition. These factors can include autoimmune disease, radiation therapy, thyroid surgery and even certain medications can cause the development of this condition. Though less common, other causes of this condition can include congenital disease, pregnancy, pituitary disorder and iodine deficiency.

There are certain groups of people who are at greater risk for developing hypothyroidism. Those who are at greater risk include:

• a family member who has an autoimmune disease
• Have autoimmune disease yourself
• a woman who is 60 years of age or older
• Have been treated with radioactive iodine or anti-thyroid medications
• had thyroid surgery
• Have received radiation to your neck or upper chest

Seeking Medical Attention

As previously mentioned, you should seek medical help if you start to notice any of the aforementioned symptoms. Your doctor will assess your condition and determine what type of treatment you should receive. Typically, treatment involves hormone therapy; however, if hormone therapy is unresponsive, you may require surgery in order to correct the condition.

If it is determined that you have hypothyroidism, you will need to continue to monitor the condition. Regular appointments with your doctors, as well as diagnostic testing kits, which will allow you to monitor your condition at home, will allow you to stay up on your condition.

About the Author: Paula Trinker has hypothyroidism and highly recommends getting the treatment that you need.

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