5 Common Signs and Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Up to 5% of the general population is affected by hypothyroidism. In addition, roughly 5% of these cases may be undiagnosed. Hypothyroidism is more common in women, people aged over 65 and anyone with existing autoimmune diseases e.g. coeliac disease or type 1 diabetes. The diagnosis of hypothyroidism can be difficult, due to the lack of specific symptoms; however, we have identified 5 common symptoms which may be worthy of a check-up.

What is Hypothyroidism?

Your thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland, located at the front of your neck. When fully grown, its length is roughly 4-6cm and 1.3-1.9cm wide. Despite its small size, your thyroid is extremely important to the healthy function of your organs. From your digestive system to your heartbeat rhythm, your thyroid ensures that energy is adequately provided for these organs to function.Thyroxine and triiodothyronine (T4 and T3 for short), are two key thyroid hormones that regulate metabolic processes and help with your growth and development. Simply put, hypothyroidism is the insufficient production of thyroid hormones circulating around your body.

Hypothyroidism is also known as an “underactive thyroid” due to the lack of thyroid hormones being produced.

What are the causes of Hypothyroidism?

Around the world, Hypothyroidism is known to be caused commonly by a lack of iodine. However, in countries and areas where iodine intake is adequate, Hashimoto’s disease is a common cause. This is an autoimmune disease which causes your immune system to attack your thyroid. Hashimoto’s disease is more prevalent in women and often results in an underactive thyroid.Other causes of hypothyroidism may be due to treatment for hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) such as surgery or radioiodine therapy. Also, certain medications for other diseases may interfere with your thyroid function.

Globally, iodine deficiency is the main cause of hypothyroidism, followed by Hashimoto’s disease.

How do we diagnose Hypothyroidism?

Diagnosing hypothyroidism can be tricky due to relatively vague symptoms. Commonly, hypothyroidism is diagnosed through blood tests which show a persistently high level of thyroid stimulating hormone, mixed with a low level of free thyroxine (FT4). The difference between FT4 and T4 is that the former is not bound to blood proteins, allowing the hormone to be used freely in your body.

Hypothyroidism is diagnosed by observing an imbalance of thyroid hormones through blood testing.

5 Common Signs of Hypothyroidism to Look Out For

Despite the vague nature of hypothyroidism symptoms, there are common signs which can occur due to an underactive thyroid.

These symptoms include:

  • Dry skin
  • Fatigue
  • Constipation
  • Sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures
  • Weight gain or weight loss

Any person with all or many of these symptoms should consider a thyroid function assessment. It is important to receive your diagnosis as soon as possible in order to treat your symptoms in the most effective way.

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