By: NISHA ABRAHAM PARAMBIL
The thyroid gland is a small gland, but it plays a significant, complex role in your body. When it does not work properly, it can seriously impact your health.
Located in your neck under your voice box, the thyroid gland controls several things, including your metabolism, body temperature and heart rate.
Hypothyroidism (also known as an underactive thyroid) is a common disorder where the thyroid does not release enough thyroid hormone. This causes your metabolism to slow down. Symptoms of hypothyroidism can include fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. In extreme cases, it can cause life-threatening conditions, such as low body temperature, coma and heart failure.
Hypothyroidism affects people of all ages, but it is especially common among women over 60.
What causes hypothyroidism?
The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s disease, which causes your body’s immune system to attack and damage your thyroid gland. Other causes include thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid), iodine deficiency and thyroid surgery.
How it is diagnosed
Symptoms of hypothyroidism can be similar to other conditions. The main method to diagnose hypothyroidism is with a blood test. If your thyroid is enlarged, your healthcare provider may be able to feel it during an exam. If you have symptoms of hypothyroidism, ask your provider about testing.
If you have hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a life-long condition. It cannot be cured, but it is very treatable. It is typically managed with medication that replaces the hormones your thyroid gland is not making.
Many people with hypothyroidism struggle with gaining weight, so adopting healthy habits is important. Daily exercise can help raise your metabolism, reduce your fatigue and decrease muscle pain.
MPCP’s endocrinology staff specializes in diagnosing and treating glandular conditions like hypothyroidism. You can also learn more with this helpful resource:
Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid) — National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Dr. Parambil is an endocrinologist who diagnoses and treats disorders of the endocrine glands, such as diabetes, pituitary disease, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and osteoporosis. See the MPCP Specialists webpage to learn more.
