Hypothyroidism means that your thyroid gland is under-active and therefore is not producing enough thyroid hormone that your body needs. With this, there’s a “slowing down” of your body’s processes.

What causes Hypothyroidism? Who are at risk?

 Hypothyroidism is commonly caused by your body’s own immune system attacking your thyroid gland. This is termed as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis which causes approximately 90% of all hypothyroidism cases. It can also occur if you were subjected to previous thyroid surgery, radiation to the head and neck, or were over-treated for hyperthyroidism. Women are more prone to have this condition compared to men by five (5) to eight (8) times.

What are the Symptoms?

Initially, you may not be able to detect the presence of the disease as these are vague and may go unnoticed for years. However, as your body is continually being deprived of the thyroid hormone, the condition progresses and the symptoms become more obvious and severe.  

Early symptoms include:

• Feeling tired often
• Thinning and loss of hair
• Dry and itchy skin
• Unintentional weight gain
• Constipation
• Forgetfulness
• Depression
• Goiter
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Muscle aches and pains
• Menstrual irregularities
• Decreased libido

More advanced symptoms of hypothyroidism are:

• Slowed speech
• Hoarse, breaking voice
• Puffy face, hands, and feet
• Heart problems

How is Hypothyroidism Diagnosed?

Studies suggest that approximately 13 million people with hypothyroidism in America alone are undiagnosed. Blood tests are done to measure the levels of your thyroid hormone and TSH to confirm if you have the disease. Your doctor will also do a physical exam to look for visible signs of hypothyroidism or any of the symptoms mentioned above.

How can Hypothyroidism be treated?

Hypothyroidism can easily be treated if diagnosed early. It only becomes complicated to treat if complications already developed. Thyroid replacement hormone therapy is usually recommended with levothyroxine (T4) as the standard. You will have to take this daily pill for life. However, treatment won’t present you with problems, and is simple and inexpensive. With this, you can live a completely normal life.