In monitoring your general heath, you need to be aware of anything unusual in the way you are feeling on a day- to- day basis. Troubling symptoms, even if vague should be followed up on with a physician. If you have concerns about thyroid-related symptoms, speaking with a specialist such as the team members here at Freeman Endocrinology is the ideal step to take. Within this post we delve more into hypothyroidism and explain its causes and its symptoms.
What is Hypothyroidism?
Just as hyperthyroidism refers to a condition in which your thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, hypothyroidism refers to when your thyroid isn’t producing enough thyroid hormone. This problem affects a significant number of people across the country.
While there’s no cure for hypothyroidism and most patients must manage the disease over their lifetime, there are many techniques that specialists can utilize to ensure that the problem doesn’t have an impact in your day-to-day life. For example, some prescribe a medication such as levothyroxine to combat the problem and help improve the patient’s thyroid levels.
What are the Causes of Hypothyroidism?
The causes of hypothyroidism are varied as there can be many reasons why the thyroid gland can’t create enough hormone. The major causes of the issue include:
Autoimmune diseases
Diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis my cause the body to attack the thyroid hormone, mistaking it for a foreign substance.
Surgical removal of the thyroid gland
In cases where patients experience cancerous growths on their thyroid, the specialist may surgically remove it to stop the spread of cancer. However, without the thyroid, the patient may then experience low levels of thyroid hormone.
Treatment for hyperthyroidism
People who are treated for having too much thyroid hormone may be treated with medications or therapies that decrease their thyroid function. If some cases, the reduction in function places the patient in a permanent state of hypothyroidism, which can be managed with medication.
What are the Symptoms of Hypothyroidism?
In assessing your condition, you should gain a clear insight into the symptoms associated with the hypothyroidism. These symptoms can include:
- Hair loss
- Pale skin
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Cold intolerance
Remember: Only an endocrine specialist can help you to properly diagnose your hypothyroidism. It’s important that you book a consultation with an Endocrinologist before moving forward with any treatment options. To discuss potential treatment today, call our team at Freeman Endocrinology now!
