Hypothyroidism
The exact opposite of hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism is when the thyroid is not producing enough T3 and T4 hormones to maintain homeostasis within the body. Hypothyroidism is more common in women. There are a number of reasons why someone would develop hypothyroidism, including medications for bipolar disorder and diabetes; damaged or missing pieces of the thyroid glance, other thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis; too little intake of iodine; and pituitary gland conditions and damage. Other autoimmune disorders have also been responsible for hypothyroidism.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism vary from person to person, but generally these include:
• Feeling cold
• Unintended and unexplained weight gain
• Dry skin
• Depression
• Constipation
• Fatigue and low energy levels
• Forgetfulness and brain fog
• Development of goiter
As with hyperthyroidism, doctors will order blood tests to determine the level of thyroid hormones in the blood. While there is no cure for hypothyroidism, the symptoms can be treated with hormone replacement therapies.
