In recent blogs, we have discussed what it is like to have an overactive thyroid. This week, we are sharing about an under-active thyroid. Today’s blog is all about hypothyroidism.
Hypo versus hyper:
During our last few blogs, you have been well educated on the topic of an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism. Please go back and review these blogs as those symptoms may pertain to you and your current situation.
In contrast, hypothyroidism may check a few boxes off of your symptoms list. Fortunately for our patients, this is a treatable condition. Read further to learn about symptoms, signs, diagnosis, and treatment for this condition called hyperthyroidism.
Last time you stopped by, you were informed that an overactive, also called hyperactive, thyroid produces too much crucial hormones. Hypoactive is under-active, so yes, it produces too little of this crucial hormone. Even though hypothyroidism may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, it may cause long-term effects on your overall health.
For example, a person that does not seek treatment for this condition may eventually experience infertility, joint pain, obesity, and heart disease. The good news is, if you have hypothyroidism, there are safe medications your doctor may prescribe you, but first, let’s dive into what you can look out for.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism:
The symptoms vary depending on the severity of the hormone deficiency. Often times, the symptoms gradually develop. As a person’s metabolism slows down, people tend to notice the symptoms.
Signs of hypothyroidism includes:
- muscles weakness
- fatigue
- constipation
- dry skin
- increased sensitivity to cold
- puffy face
- thinning hair
- depression
- impaired memory
- weight gain
- hoarseness
- elevated blood cholesterol
- goiters, enlarged thyroid gland
People may also experience joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, Also, people report muscles aches, tenderness, and stiffness. If you have felt tired for no reason such as working long days or exerting large amounts of energy, reach out to your doctor.
Diagnosis and treatment:
If you are having changes in your digestive health such as constipation, hypothyroidism may be the culprit. In combination with digestive health changes, a puffy face, hoarse voice, and other signs collectively require a trip to the doctor.
Next time, we are discussing how you can get diagnosed and treated for hypothyroidism. Please make an appointment online if you are having any issues during this chaotic time involving COVID-19. We are still seeing patients in the safest way possible.
Staff Writer