Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. Too little hormone slows down chemical reactions in the body. The thyroid gland, which is about the size of a walnut, is located in the lower front of the neck. This gland takes iodine from the food you eat to make hormones called thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). The hormones control metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, appetite, and digestion. If too little hormone is produced, it can cause many physical and mental symptoms such as those below.
Tiredness
Depression
Muscle weakness
Constipation
Weight gain
Feeling cold a lot of the time
Heavy and long menstrual periods
Coarse, dry hair
Thick, dry skin
Swollen eyelids, puffy
Deep, hoarse voice
Thick tongue
Thickened facial features
Slowed heart rate
Less interest in sex
Loss of hearing
Numb and tingling hands
Some of the more common causes of hypothyroidism are:
Hashimoto’s disease (thyroiditis): This condition is an irritation and swelling of the thyroid gland. It is caused by a problem with the immune system.
Complete or partial removal of the thyroid gland with surgery.
Viruses: They can infect the thyroid gland and cause it to make too little hormone.
Radiation: Radioactivity can destroy the thyroid gland and its ability to make thyroid hormone. Radioactive iodine is a common treatment for an overactive thyroid gland, but often the treatment leads to an underactive thyroid gland. Also, X-ray treatment for cancer of the head or neck may expose the thyroid gland to radiation and damage it.
Overdosage of medicine used to treat hyperthyroidism.
Anyone can have hypothyroidism, but it happens most often in women over age 40. Some thyroid problems are inherited or present at birth. Call Southern California Center For Anti-Aging located in Torrance, California today for a complete consultation at 424.247.4962.
