What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism refers to a condition in which the thyroid gland produces less hormone than normal. These hormones regulate the body’s metabolism (turning food into energy and controlling the speed of cell growth). The condition can be congenital (present from birth), or occur later in life as a result of thyroid damage or conditions which cause inflammation or infection in the thyroid gland. See this resource for more information on congenital hypothyroidism.

Symptoms depend on the age of the person, but include tiredness, dry hair and skin, slowed thinking and weight gain. The treatment of this condition is replacement of the thyroid hormone with medication.

Risks

The thyroid gland sits at the front of the throat, and produces a hormone (thyroid hormone) which controls metabolism (cell activity and growth). There are many causes for decreased thyroid gland function (hypothyroidism). These include not enough iodine in the diet, surgical or radiation damage to the thyroid gland, and infections or inflammation of the thyroid gland. Some children are born with a thyroid gland which does not work well. Hypothyroidism most commonly affects adults, though it can occur at any age. Both men and women are affected by the condition although it is more common in women. Some conditions that cause hypothyroidism tend to run in families, so people with a family member with hypothyroidism are often more likely to develop hypothyroidism.

Symptoms

The early symptoms of poor thyroid function include tiredness, constipation, brittle nails, dry hair and feeling cold. As the hypothyroidism continues, people develop a low mood, decreased motivation, slowed thinking, weight gain, a slow heart rate and a hoarse voice. Some people may develop a lump in their thyroid gland or swelling of the neck. Babies with congenital hypothyroidism (hypothyroidism since birth) have feeding difficulties, prolonged newborn jaundice (yellow skin after birth), severe constipation, and tend to move less than other babies. These babies tend to not grow and develop at the same rate as other children. Hypothyroidism in older people can be confused with dementia.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on the symptoms and clinical examination, and is confirmed by blood tests which measure the amount of hormone the thyroid gland is producing.

Treatment

Treatment consists of replacing thyroid hormone with medication. Replacing thyroid hormone may require regular blood tests until the correct dosage is reached.

Prevention

Avoiding radiation to the thyroid, and taking plenty of iodine in the diet can help to prevent some cases of hypothyroidism. In many countries, pregnant women and newborns are screened (tested without symptoms) for hypothyroidism. This allows early treatment and helps to prevent the consequences of undiagnosed hypothyroidism before birth and in childhood.

Other names for hypothyroidism

• Underactive thyroid
• Central hypothyroidism
• Primary hypothyroidism

**What is Hypothyroidism?**



**Q: What is hypothyroidism?**



**A:** Hypothyroidism is a medical condition that occurs ⁣when the thyroid gland does not produce enough ​thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located ‍in the front of the ⁣neck that is responsible for​ regulating metabolism.



**Q: What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?**



**A:** Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include fatigue, weakness, ⁤cold intolerance, constipation, weight gain, dry skin,‌ menstrual irregularities, increased cholesterol levels, and depression.



**Q: What are the causes of hypothyroidism?**



**A:** The most common cause of hypothyroidism ⁣is ⁢autoimmune disease, ⁤known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Other causes include thyroid surgery, radiation exposure, ⁢and certain medications.



**Q: ​How is hypothyroidism ‌diagnosed?**



**A:** Hypothyroidism is diagnosed through a blood test that measures the levels of thyroid hormone in the blood. A physical ⁣examination may also ⁣be performed to ⁢look for⁣ signs of the condition.



**Q: How is hypothyroidism treated?**



**A:** Hypothyroidism is treated with thyroid hormone replacement medication, such as levothyroxine. The medication is typically taken orally once‌ a day.



**Q: What are the complications of untreated hypothyroidism?**



**A:** Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to a number of complications, including:



* High cholesterol

* Heart disease

*⁤ Infertility

*⁢ Pregnancy⁣ complications

* Myxedema coma (a life-threatening condition)



**Q: How can I prevent hypothyroidism?**



**A:** There is ⁤no foolproof⁣ way⁤ to⁣ prevent hypothyroidism, but getting enough iodine in your diet can help ‌maintain ⁣a healthy ⁣thyroid gland. ​Iodine is found in seafood, iodized ⁣salt, and dairy products.



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