Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the

thyroid

does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Since the main purpose of thyroid hormone is to "run the body's metabolism", it is understandable that people with this condition will have symptoms associated with a slow metabolism.
If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to heart problems, nerve injury, infertility and in severe cases, death.
Symptoms

Thinning or loss of hair anywhere

common

Recent unexplained weight gain

common

Irregular periods

common

Increased sensitivity to cold

common

Fatigue

common

Feeling sleepy

common

Lack of concentration

common

Joint stiffness

  • Difficulty moving wrist

or Pain in toes

or Difficulty moving shoulder

or Difficulty moving hip

  • Less than 30 minutes, More than 30 minutes

or Joint pain

common

Difficulty passing stool

  • Chronic

common

Excessive or prolonged bleeding during period

common

Depression

Muscle pain

Dry skin on arms or hands

or Dry skin on legs or feet

or Dry skin at neck

or Dry skin at scalp

Poor appetite

Poor memory

Difficulty hearing

Strained voice

Risk factors

Hashimoto thyroiditis

Use of anti hyperthyroidism medication

Postpartum thyroiditis

Iodine deficiency

Radiation therapy

  • Neck

Pituitary adenoma

Treatment
Standard treatment for hypothyroidism involves daily use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine. This oral medication restores adequate hormone levels, reversing the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism. You'll likely start to feel better soon after you start treatment. Treatment with levothyroxine will likely be lifelong, but because the dosage you need may change, your doctor is likely to check your TSH level every year.
Recommended specialist

If you have Hypothyroidism, then a visit to an endocrinologist is highly recommended.

Contact an

Endocrinologist

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