What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a situation that occurs due to relative in-activeness of the thyroid gland leading to less than normal secretion of the thyroid hormones. This is an unhealthy situation as these hormones play a key role in the body's metabolism and helps the body use the energy it gets from the food it digests. Around 5% of the American population is affected by hypothyroidism and is generally observed in older women whose age is more than 50. Hypothyroidism can be easily identified by observing any of the symptoms mentioned below.
What is Hypothyroidism?


One of the most common symptoms arising out of hypothyroidism is an acute increase in weight. This occurs since a shortfall of thyroid leads to slow metabolism rate in the human body. All the calories that one takes in through the food he or she eats can't be utilized in a proper manner by the body. The resulting calories that could not burn due to the slow metabolic rate lead to accumulation of fat. This weight gain generally comes across as a surprise to the person as he or she has not altered the diet but experiences tremendous increase in weight. This deficiency also increases the retention of water in the body which further contributes to a bloated perception of the person who suffers from it.

One of the other major symptoms seen in people suffering from hypothyroidism is the dryness of the skin. The skins is easily irritable and flaky in appearance. Redness and soreness is also observed. In extreme cases, severe itching is also caused. A change in color for the palms and soles of the feet is also seen. A yellowish or orange tinge often develops in those areas.


Another highly observed symptom is constipation. When the thyroid hormone is not secreted as it should be, it becomes near impossible for our digestive system to excrete properly. It leads to abdominal cramps, bloating and increase in weight in some cases.

People who suffer from hypothyroidism get easily tired and exhausted and that is understandable as low thyroid hormone levels can do that to you.

Women who are affected by hypothyroidism often face disturbances in their period cycles. Sometimes it may lead to irregularities in the cycle. It might also lead to immense pain. Hypothyroidism can also cause infertility in both the human sexes sometimes.

Despite so many symptoms pointing towards hypothyroidism, a lot of people fail to identify this condition and continue living with it for an enormous period of time before seeking medical attention. Medication is available on prescription but is known to cause substantial side effects.

Comments:

More articles in this section: