Lets look into Hypothyroidism

 Hypothyroidism also called underactive thyroid disease, is a common disorder.

It occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormone. The condition is more common in women and people over the age of 50.

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the front of the neck and produces triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) hormones. These hormones affect all aspects of metabolism and also influence the control of vital functions, such as body temperature and heart rate.

Causes

• The most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, a disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland. 
• Congenital defects
• Surgical removal of the thyroid gland
• Irradiation of the gland
• Failure of the pituitary gland to produce enough thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
• Too little iodine in the diet
• Some women develop hypothyroidism during or after pregnancy

Symptoms

Common symptoms of Hypothyroidism

• Weight gain
• Fatigue
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Puffy face
• Hoarseness
• Muscle weakness
• Muscle aches
• Thinning hair
• Slowed heart rate
• Depression
• Impaired memory
• Enlarged thyroid gland (goitre)
• Irregular menstrual period.

Children and teens have the same signs and symptoms as adults, but they may also experience:

• Poor growth, resulting in short stature
• Delayed development of permanent teeth
• Delayed puberty
• Poor mental development

Complications

Untreated hypothyroidism may result in

• Goiter: An abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland. A large goiter can make it difficult to swallow or breathe.
• Heart problems: Hypothyroidism may also be associated with an increased risk of heart disease and heart failure.
• Mental health issues: Depression may occur early in hypothyroidism and may become more severe over time. 
• Peripheral neuropathy: Long-term uncontrolled hypothyroidism can cause damage to peripheral nerves. Peripheral neuropathy may cause pain, numbness and tingling in the affected areas.
• Infertility: Low levels of thyroid hormone can interfere with ovulation, which impairs fertility.
• Birth defects: Babies born to women with untreated thyroid disease may have a higher risk of birth defects. 

Diagnosis

Doctors may order one or more blood tests to check thyroid function. Salient Blood Tests for diagnosing Hypothyroidism are:

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)

T4, Free

T3 Free and Total

Thyroid Antibodies

Treatment:

 Treatment with synthetic thyroid hormone is usually simple, safe and effective once you and your doctor find the right dose for you.

Dr. Gursimranjit Singh has always been a passionate and ambitious student of medicine, a novelty seeker. He likes adrenaline rush events and always wanted to make difference in the lives of people. So, he chose healthcare as his profession.