Hypothyroidism is a condition of under production of the thyroid hormone in the body. The thyroid glands produce the thyroid hormones in the body. This gland is present in the lower area of the neck. It produces the hormones using iodine. These hormones mainly consist of T3 and T4. This gland is regulated by another gland called the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is in turn regulated by the hypothalamus and it signals the pituitary gland to release hormones. If there is any kind of disruption in between, it may lead to a deficiency of the production of the thyroid hormones. This condition is known as hypothyroidism.
There is a low level of hormone circulating in the body. Due to this low level, the pituitary gland attempts to increase it. When it is excessive, the pituitary gland tries to reduce it. This imbalance causes the metabolism of the body to slow down. Proper functioning of the thyroid is required for proper functioning of the body metabolism. This hormone condition is more commonly seen in women than men.
The reason for the low production may be due to enlargement of the thyroid glands, as in the state of goiter. Due to enlargement, the gland cannot produce sufficient hormones. Another reason could be pituitary disease in which the pituitary gland is unable to control and signal the thyroid gland for the production. Similarly in hypothalamic disease, the hypothalamus cannot signal for the release of hormones. In pituitary injury, the TSH produced is low, so it does not stimulate the thyroid gland. Some medications used for hyperthyroidism may lead to hypothyroidism. Iodine deficiency also causes this condition.
The symptoms can be confused with other signs like that of aging. The metabolism of the body becomes very slow. In this situation one experiences tiredness, weight gain, sleepiness, depression, constipation, sluggishness, cramps, dry hair and aches. Other symptoms are swelling of legs, cold intolerance and body pain. In some extreme cases, there is puffiness of eyes and heart failure.
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