About Hypothyroidism

By Henry-001 on

Name of the medical condition and other names that it’s been known by

  • Hypothyroidism

  • Underactive Thyroid

  • Low Thyroid

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones for the body's needs. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck that produces hormones that control how your body uses energy. Many body functions slow down when the thyroid doesn't make enough hormones.

What are Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism?

  • Feeling tired or having low energy

  • Gaining weight

  • Feeling cold

  • Dry skin and hair

  • Constipation

  • Depression

  • Muscle weakness

  • Joint or muscle pain

  • Slowed heart rate

What are Causes Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism can be caused by different things, but the most common cause is an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto's thyroiditis. In this condition, the body's immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to make less hormone. Other causes can include certain medications, radiation therapy, thyroid surgery, or insufficient iodine in your diet.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Doctors diagnose hypothyroidism with blood tests that measure thyroid hormone levels. The main treatment is taking a daily pill that contains synthetic thyroid hormone.

  • Medication: This medicine, called levothyroxine, replaces the hormone your thyroid isn't making. Most people need to take this for the rest of their lives.

  • Monitoring: It is important to take the right amount. Too little will not treat the condition, while too much can cause symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Regular blood tests help doctors adjust the dose as needed.

Trend

  • In the United States: About 5 out of 100 people aged 12 years and older (approximately 16.5 million Americans) have hypothyroidism.

  • Demographics: Women are more likely to have the condition than men, and the risk increases with age.

  • Projections: The number of people with hypothyroidism is expected to increase slightly over the next five years due to an aging population and improved diagnostic techniques.

History

The thyroid gland was first described in the 1600s, but its disorders were not well understood until the late 1800s. In 1883, surgeon Theodor Kocher noticed that removing the gland led to specific symptoms. By the early 1900s, researchers found that thyroid extract could treat these symptoms. A major breakthrough occurred in the 1950s with the development of synthetic levothyroxine, which remains the standard of care today.

Hypothyroidism - Source of Information

For informational purposes only. Consult a medical professional for advice.


Replies (0)