Hypothyroidism- Symptoms and causes

Symptoms of Underactive Thyroid

The symptoms of an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can vary in severity and can take time to develop, ranging between several months to even some years. Hypothyroidism symptoms often include:

1. Constipation

2. Pain or aches in various parts of the body

3. Muscle weakness

4. Weight gain

5. A numbing feeling in the hands

6. Higher sensitivity to cold temperatures

7. Fatigue

8. Problems with memory

9. Puffy face, drooping eyelids, and other physical changes

10. Higher than usual blood cholesterol levels

11. Feelings of depression

12. Frequent and heavier menstrual periods than usual

13. Dry skin

14. Low libido

15. Hair thinning

16. Slow heart rate (bradycardia)

17. Hoarse voice

18. Coarse skin and hair

People often mistake these hypothyroidism symptoms for ageing due to its slow developmental nature. The slow metabolism rate gives rise to more apparent signs over time.

Causes

Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, can be caused by various factors and the specific cause of hypothyroidism can vary from person to person. This includes:

1. Autoimmune Thyroiditis

The most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

2. Thyroid Surgery

Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland can lead to hypothyroidism, especially if the entire gland is removed.

3. Radiation Therapy

Radiation treatment for conditions like head and neck cancers can damage the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism.

4. Medications

Certain medications, such as lithium (used for bipolar disorder) and amiodarone (used for heart arrhythmias), can interfere with thyroid function.

5. Iodine Deficiency

In regions with low dietary iodine intake, the thyroid may not produce enough hormones, leading to hypothyroidism.

6. Congenital Hypothyroidism

Some infants are born with an underdeveloped or absent thyroid gland, leading to congenital hypothyroidism.

7. Pituitary Disorders

Rarely, hypothyroidism can result from a problem in the pituitary gland, which controls thyroid hormone production.

8. Aging

The risk of hypothyroidism tends to increase with age, especially in older women.

9. Other Autoimmune Diseases

Some individuals with other autoimmune conditions, like type 1 diabetes or celiac disease, may be at higher risk of developing hypothyroidism.

10. Infections

Certain infections, such as viral thyroiditis, can cause temporary thyroid dysfunction, which may resolve or lead to permanent hypothyroidism.

When to see a doctor

It is important to closely monitor your health and notice changes as hypothyroidism symptoms can take years to develop. If you are gaining unexplained weight, feeling constantly tired, experiencing constipation or facing any other signs of hypothyroidism, make sure to contact your health care provider immediately. The diagnosis is typically made through blood tests that measure thyroid hormone levels. Treatment usually involves thyroid hormone replacement therapy to restore hormone levels to normal.