Your thyroid is a small gland in your neck that produces hormones required to balance your metabolism. Hypothyroidism, also referred to as an underactive thyroid, occurs when your thyroid gland stops working properly and doesn't produce enough of certain hormones that are required for optimal health. It's not always possible to determine why hypothyroidism develops in some people, but certain medications, radiation therapy and underlying autoimmune disease are some of the potential causes of the condition. Without treatment, hypothyroidism can contribute to the development of a range of other health problems, such as heart disease, obesity and joint pain. Here's an overview of the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment approach for hypothyroidism:
Symptoms
Symptoms of hypothyroidism often develop slowly, but common early symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin and increased sensitivity to cold. Other symptoms, which often appear after the aforementioned early symptoms, include muscle weakness and pain, high cholesterol, thinning hair, memory problems and depression. Some people also develop a hoarse voice and a noticeably puffy face.
Diagnosis And Treatment Approach
Your GP will diagnose hypothyroidism by taking details of your symptoms and carrying out a blood test to check your thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. High levels of TSH indicate you have an underactive thyroid and your body is overproducing TSH in a bid to stimulate your thyroid. Certain medications and dietary supplements, such as blood thinners and the vitamin biotin, can interfere with TSH blood results, so ensure your GP is aware of any over-the-counter medication or supplements you use before having the blood test.
Hypothyroidism can be managed by your GP. They will prescribe a synthetic thyroid hormone, which you will likely have to take for the rest of your life, and your symptoms should begin to resolve once your thyroid hormone levels are restored to within the normal parameters. It can take a little trial and error to establish the optimal dose of your medication to keep your thyroid hormone balanced, as overstimulating your thyroid can cause you to experience symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as heart palpitations and increased appetite. Your GP will carry out regular blood tests to ensure your thyroid hormone levels are being managed effectively, and you will have the opportunity to discuss how you're feeling and whether your symptoms are resolving during these appointments.
Hypothyroidism can impact on your quality of life and be detrimental to your health, so if you have symptoms associated with this condition, schedule an appointment with your GP as soon as possible.
