Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when your thyroid gland is underactive and does not produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormone.

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Thyroid hormone has many important functions within the body, including the regulation of your metabolism. When we say “metabolism” it refers to all the different reactions and processes that take place within your body, to keep it functioning well.

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SYMPTOMS

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Low amounts of thyroid hormone can affect multiple parts of your body and can leave you feeling tired, drained and moody. Other symptoms are:

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• Weight gain

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• Thinning hair

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• Slow heart rate (less than 60 beats in a minute)

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• Poor memory

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• Dry, puffy, pale skin

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• Increased sensitivity to cold

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It is easy to see how suffering from these symptoms can affect your day-to-day life. It will be very difficult for someone with low levels of thyroid hormone to live life at their full potential and to get as much enjoyment out of it as possible. 

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Fortunately, hypothyroidism is treatable! If it is treated correctly, your body can function as it should, and you can focus on enjoying life.

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To manage your condition in the best way possible, make sure that you do the following:

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• Take your medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or stop taking your medication unless your doctor has advised you to do so.

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• Schedule regular follow-ups with your doctor. This is important so that your doctor can check the thyroid hormone levels in your blood and decide whether your treatment dose needs to be changed.

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Some people need to take thyroid medication for life, whereas others may only need it for a certain period. Your doctor will tell you how long you will need treatment for. It is important that you do not decide to stop your medication on your own.

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This article is written by Dr Ruusa Shivute | Health Window

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References: Persani L. Clinical review: Central hypothyroidism: pathogenic, diagnostic, and therapeutic challenges. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2012 Sep;97(9):3068-7

February 26, 2021 |  Categories: Health Window, Hypothyroidism