Frequently Asked Questions About Hypothyroidism
Have you been suffering from fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, or memory loss? If so, you could have a metabolic condition called hypothyroidism. This condition affects approximately 10 million Americans and is most commonly found in women. When experiencing any of the symptoms of hypothyroidism, it is important to consult an internal medicine physician in Winter Haven, or your hometown, to properly diagnose and treat your condition. Read on to get the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about hypothyroidism.
What Is Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism, also called underactive thyroid, is diep io hack no root a medical condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone for the body抯 needs. The thyroid is responsible for regulating the body抯 metabolism, so individuals with this condition tend to experience symptoms associated with a slow metabolism. This condition can be present for many years before the symptoms are recognized and treated effectively.
What Are the Symptoms of Hypothyroidism?
Recognizing the symptoms of hypothyroidism is the first step towards diagnosis and treatment. Unfortunately, symptoms read more of the disorder are commonly missed, especially in postpartum and menopausal females. Some of the most common symptoms associated with hypothyroidism include the following:
?Fatigue and exhaustion
?Unexplained weight gain
?Sensitivity to cold
?Hair loss, thinning of the hair, and coarse dry hair
?Depression, severe mood swings, and irritability
?Memory loss and reduced concentration
?Muscle weakness
?Joint and muscle pain
?Constipation
?Dry, itchy, and pale skin
?Heavy or irregular menstrual periods
?Decreased libido
?Infertility and miscarriages
?Swelling of the feet
?Goiter
Individuals with hypothryoidism may have any number of the above-mentioned symptoms depending upon the severity and duration of the disorder. Some patients may also be asymptomatic.
What Causes Hypothyroidism?
The most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto抯 thyroiditis, an inflammation caused when the patient抯 own immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Other common causes of hypothyroidism include the following:
?Inflammation of the thyroid gland
?Congenital hypothyroidism
?Surgical removal of the thyroid
?Radiation treatment of the thyroid
?Some medications
?Pregnancy
?Iodine deficiency
?Abnormalities of the pituitary gland
?Hypothalamic dysfunction
Stress is also thought to be a major contributing factor to the development of the disorder.
Who Is Most Likely to Develop Hypothyroidism?
Women are much more likely to develop hypothyroidism than men, as it is found in approximately 1 in every 50 females and 1 in every 1,000 males. The condition is also more common among individuals older than age 60. Other common risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing hypothyroidism include the following:
?Family history of thyroid disease
?Previous thyroid problems
?Previous surgery to correct a thyroid problem
?Radiation to the thyroid, neck, or chest
?Certain autoimmune disorders including type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis
?Turner syndrome
?Being older than age 60
?Pregnancy
Individuals with increased risk factors for developing hypothyroidism may benefit from regular testing to help diagnose the condition.
How Is Hypothyroidism Diagnosed?
Because many of the symptoms of hypothyroidism are the same as other types of diseases, the condition cannot be diagnosed based upon symptoms csrracinghackcheatzs alone. Physicians typically rely upon a thorough physical examination, a detailed medical history, and blood tests to properly diagnose the condition. Measurement of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormone (T4) are essential to correctly diagnose hypothyroidism.
How Is Hypothyroidism Treated?
Hypothyroidism is most commonly treated with a synthetic thyroxine medication. The exact dose of medication is adjusted depending upon the patient抯 height, weight, and severity of condition. To determine if taking a synthetic thyroxine medication may help relieve your symptoms of hypothyroidism, it is important to consult an experienced internal medicine physician in Winter Haven, or your home town.
