Hypothyroidism And Symptoms: What Causes Hypothyroidism

Causes Of Hypothyroidism

Being ‘hypothyroid’ or suffering from hypothyroidism is characterized by low levels of thyroid hormone in the body. The thyroid gland which is responsible for producing the thyroid hormone in the body helps regulate the body’s metabolism. A malfunctioning of this gland or irregularities with the thyroid levels in the body inevitably result in metabolic disorders. Persons suffering from hypothyroidism will thus tend to experience a slow rate of metabolism. There are many factors responsible for hypothyroidism. The most common cause for hypothyroidism is any kind of damage to the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland may become damaged due to inflammation or as a result of attacks by the immune system, which results in a destruction of the gland’s cells. Other factors that give rise to hypothyroidism include certain kinds of treatment and exposure to medication. Radiation treatment for cancer, for instance, is a common cause of damage to the thyroid gland. In addition, congenital birth defects and disorders like viral thyroiditis can also lead to damage in the thyroid gland, consequently leading to hypothyroidism. A damaged thyroid gland thus cannot meet the thyroid needs of the body and hypothyroidism develops as a consequence.

Possible Symptoms Of Hypothyroid

Sometimes, hypothyroidism may develop as a result of a pituitary disorder. In some rare cases, when the pituitary gland does not produce sufficient quantities of thyroid stimulating hormone, then the thyroid gland, though normal, will not produce sufficient thyroid hormone. Persons suffering from hypothyroidism tend to experience extreme fatigue and weakness, frequent muscle cramps, weight gain and dry, rough skin. These symptoms may be accompanied by dry hair, hair loss, depression, memory loss, irritability and a decreased libido. Patients may experience combinations of these symptoms depending upon the extent and nature of their thyroid deficiency. It’s important to diagnose hypothyroidism early as its symptoms tend to worsen over a period of time. In addition, hypothyroidism can result in serious disorders like heart failure, depression or even a coma and should thus be treated immediately. Owing to low thyroid hormone levels in the body, the pituitary gland produces the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in excess, thereby causing the thyroid gland to become enlarged. The enlarged thyroid gland subsequently forms a goiter. You should visit your endocrinologist immediately if you are suffering from symptoms of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism can generally be identified with the help of a simple blood test. In certain cases however, hypothyroidism may not be identifiable easily and may require tests that are more detailed.