Hypothyroidism

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormones. Too little hormone slows down chemical reactions in the body. The thyroid gland, which is about the size of a walnut, is located in the lower front of the neck. This gland takes iodine from the food you eat to make hormones called thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). The hormones control metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, appetite, and digestion. If too little hormone is produced, it can cause many physical and mental symptoms including:

• Tiredness
• Depression
• Muscle weakness
• Constipation
• Weight gain
• Feeling cold a lot of the time
• Heavy and long menstrual periods
• Coarse, dry hair
• Thick, dry skin
• Swollen eyelids, puffy
• Deep, hoarse voice
• Thick tongue
• Thickened facial features
• Slowed heart rate
• Less interest in sex
• Loss of hearing
• Numb and tingling hands

What causes Hypothyroidism?

Some of the more common causes of hypothyroidism are:

• Hashimoto’s disease (thyroiditis): This condition is an irritation and swelling of the thyroid gland. It is caused by a problem with the immune system.
• Complete or partial removal of the thyroid gland with surgery.
• Viruses: They can infect the thyroid gland and cause it to make too little hormone.
• Radiation: Radioactivity can destroy the thyroid gland and its ability to make thyroid hormone. Radioactive iodine is a common treatment for an overactive thyroid gland, but often the treatment leads to an underactive thyroid gland. Also, X-ray treatment for cancer of the head or neck may expose the thyroid gland to radiation and damage it.
• Overdosage of medicine used to treat hyperthyroidism.

Request Your FREE Consultation Today!

Anyone can have hypothyroidism, but it happens most often in women over age 40. Some thyroid problems are inherited or present at birth.

Call The Anti-Aging Center at Make You Well located in Torrance, California today for a complete consultation at (424) 374-2800.