Hypothyroid Symptoms and Effects on Metabolism

Being diagnosed with hypothyroid means you have an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism. Having low thyroid can affect your well being leaving you feeling tired and weak all the time. Its main function is to make sure your metabolism is regulated.

The thyroid gland is located in front of the neck, is a butterfly shaped gland. Energy is produced by the thyroid gland to produce hormones. Hypothyroid causes a chemical imbalance, symptoms can become severe.

If untreated high cholesterol levels can lead to other health risks like stroke, heart attack, obesity, and joint pain. It is easy to treat even in pregnancy, although it is risky for an unborn baby. You are susceptible to be hypothyroid at any age; older women are at the highest risk. Hypothyroidism can also be hereditary.

Hashimoto thyroiditis is advanced thyroid problem, breaking down the body’s immune system attacking thyroid tissue, resulting in the thyroid gland not making enough thyroid hormone. It is more common in the United States. Other things that can affect the thyroid gland are: radiation, or removal of the thyroid gland, viral infection and drugs, like lithium can have an effect too.

Some symptoms of hypothyroidism are:

Being tired, or weak

Depression

Dry skin or fragile nails

Sensitive to cold

Constipation

Irregular periods

Memory problems or decision making

Symptoms caused by a slower metabolism are mistaken for normal aging. A simple blood test can detect hypothyroidism by your doctor. After taking thyroid hormone tablets, like synthroid you usually feel the difference within a week, but will likely take thyroid for the rest of your life. Take medicine as directed by doctor, as severe hypothyroid problem scan lead to a stay in the hospital, called myexema coma.

Should you be tested? If you have any signs or aren’t sure then get tested. It’s not always easy to catch the signs so get tested. Those at risk the most are older women, pregnant women, hereditary, rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes.