The thyroid gland releases hormones into the bloodstream that regulate the body's metabolism. When the thyroid gland does not release enough hormones, it is underactive. An underactive thyroid gland, also called hypothyroidism, causes the processes in your body to slow down. If it is not treated it can lead to other health problems.
Early Symptoms
In the beginning stages of hypothyroidism, you may notice some of the more common symptoms. These symptoms are constipation, depression, fatigue, sensitivity to cold, heavier menstrual periods, weakness, weight gain, dry skin, brittle nails and hair, and muscle or joint pain. These symptoms may start out mild and increase in severity as time goes on. This is caused by the gradual progression of the disorder.
Later Symptoms
If the underactive thyroid is not treated, the symptoms will become more severe and other new symptoms may appear. These later symptoms are hoarseness, slower speech, a thickening of your skin, thinning eyebrows, a decreased sense of taste and smell and puffiness in your face, hands and feet. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor immediately.
Causes
There are several different things that can cause your thyroid gland to become underactive. Some common causes of hypothyroidism are iodine deficiency, autoimmune thyroiditis, an underdeveloped thyroid gland and hypothalamus disorders. Some treatments that are used for an overactive thyroid can cause the thyroid to become underactive. These can include thyroid surgeries, antithyroid medications and radioiodide therapy.
Types
There are many types of hypothyroidism. Some are more common than others. Hashimoto's disease is the most common type of hypothyroidism. Some other types of hypothyroidism are subacute granulomatous thyroiditis, postpartum thyroiditis, primary hypothyroidism, hereditary hypothyroidism, neonatal hypothyroidism, silent thyroiditis, secondary hypothyroidism, central hypothyroidism, and acquired hypothyroidism. Each type may have different causes and symptoms.
Treatment
An underactive thyroid is normally treated with synthetic thyroxine. Getting the right dose of the thyroxine may be an ongoing process. Dosing is different for everyone and depends on several factors. These factors can include age, weight, how severe the hypothyroidism is, other health issues and any other medications you take that might interfere with the treatment.
Complications
Although it is very rare, myxedema coma can be a complication if your hypothyroidism is not properly treated. Symptoms of a myxedema coma are low temperature, slowed breathing, low blood pressure, low blood sugar and unresponsiveness. Other complications of hypothyroidism are heart disease, a higher risk of infections, infertility and miscarriage.
Tags: thyroid gland, become underactive, hypothyroidism Some, more common, myxedema coma
