One can determine if they have hypothyroidism by going to a clinic and getting a simple blood test done. However, what is hypothyroidism? It is the scientific name given to the condition of an underactive thyroid – which is an extremely tiny gland that can really change one’s overall well-being and health. Unbeknownst to many, the thyroid gland has quite a bit of control over one’s health while it is constantly producing hormones that greatly affect metabolism. Whether the thyroid gland is producing too little or too much hormones – one will be able to tell something is off kilter.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
If one is suffering from the imbalance that hypothyroidism has upon the body, they may be experiencing some or all of the following symptoms:
* Fatigue and irritability
* Loss of hair or thinning hair
* Weight gain and muscle weakness
* Pain in joints and muscle tenderness
* Irregular menstrual cycles
* Depression
* Impaired memory
These are just some of the symptoms that one my suffer from if they have hypothyroidism but depending on the severity can greatly change the effects that it has upon the body. If hypothyroidism is not treated or diagnosed, over time, it will progressively worsen and one may then notice goiter growth due to the constant stimulation of the thyroid gland.
Myxedema
There is a life threatening form of hypothyroidism which is called myxedema, but that is rare. Symptoms for this form of hypothyroidism may include but are not limited to:
* Decreased overall body temperature
* Decreased breathing
* Lowered blood pressure
* Unresponsiveness and possibly comatose state
* Could be fatal
When to Seek Help from a Physician
If one is experiencing unexplainable bouts of tiredness, is having trouble getting through their day without wanting to take a nap, extreme dry skin, constipation amongst other symptoms they may want to consider asking their physician about testing for hypothyroidism.
In some cases, hypothyroidism may go away on its own but in patients that are older, it tends to stay and worsen if left untreated. Some people may experience effects from this condition at a young age and as hormones change through the years – the body might balance itself out without the assistance of medication.
This chronic condition will need to be maintained and one will have to go to frequent checkups with a physician to check to see if their hormone levels are in balance. If they are not, it will be time to readjust the treatment plan. To know more about hypothyroidism and it’s treatment options visit Business Name.
