0
The thyroid is an unassuming gland, shaped like a butterfly, that resides in the front of the neck. It produces hormones that determine how your body uses energy. In hypothyroidism, the thyroid is under-active and doesn't make enough thyroid hormone. If left untreated, this can cause a number of effects throughout the entire body such as higher cholesterol levels, obesity, joint pain, or harm to an unborn baby.
Who gets hypothyroidism?Anyone can get it, but it more common among women and among adults age 60 and older. It runs in families, especially following women.
What are the symptoms?- Feeling unusually tired or depressed
- Dry skin or brittle nails
- Intolerance for cold temperatures
- Constipation
- Trouble with memory or thinking clearly
- Heavy or irregular menstrual periods
Symptoms may develop slowly and gradually over time; you may not notice them for awhile, or you might mistake them for something else. If you experience any of these symptoms and they worsen or just won't go away, consult your physician.
How do doctors diagnose hypothyroidism?Your doctor will ask about any symptoms you may have noticed and give you a physical exam. A blood test is the definitive method for determining whether you have hypothyroidism.
What are the treatment options?If your symptoms are very mild or nonexistent, then your physician may adopt a "wait-and-see" approach. However, if pregnancy becomes a possibility, then you may need to take medication for the baby's health.
Most commonly, thyroid hormone pills are prescribed. Frequently, people begin to feel better in just a week or two. It may take a few months for the symptoms to disappear completely, but you'll likely have to take the medication for the rest of your life. Follow-up with your doctor regularly to make sure you're taking the right dose; too much or too little thyroid hormone can cause problems later on.
If you have severe hypothyroidism, then you'll have to go to the hospital immediately for treatment. The goal here is to avoid myxedema coma, a rare and dangerous disease.
Who should be tested for hypothyroidism?
What else can I help you with?
What is the pathophysiology of anemia in hypothyroidism?
pathophysiology of anemia in hypothyroidism
If your baby has hypothyroidism will he be mentally retarded?
Hypothyroidism does not cause mental "retardation". MR is caused by genetics usually. Hypothyroidism is treatable.
What is the result of hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a lack of iodine or a specific kind of salt.
On weekly average how much weight can you lose using a hypothyroidism diet?
Hypothyroidism is a medical condition and not a diet. Hypothyroidism prevents people from losing weight. Therefore on average people do not lose weight if they have hypothyroidism.
Does hypothyroidism cause bloating?
Hypothyroidism causes you to retain water that leads to bloating.
Who first discovered hypothyroidism?
William Gull was the first to mention hypothyroidism in a speech given in 1874. The first treatment for hypothyroidism was discovered in 1891 by George Murray.
What is hypothyroidism used in a sentence?
I was always cold and tired, and a blood test showed that I had hypothyroidism.
What is extreme hypothyroidism in infancy and childhood called?
Hypothyroidism. (or congenital hypothyroidism)
Does hypothyroidism increase abdominal distensions?
Yes. I have hypothyroidism and i look 9 mos pregnant now! :(
Deficiency of which mineral causes dwarfism and hypothyroidism?
Dwarfism is zinc deficiency. hypothyroidism is iodine deficiency.
Is their a diet for hypothyroidism with heart disease?
Suggest a diet for hypothyroidism patient with chronic heart disease.
Can joint pain be caused by hypothyroidism?
Joint pain is one of the many symptoms of hypothyroidism. There is a comprehensive list of the symptoms in the related link below (Hypothyroidism Risk/Symptoms Checklist)
