Causes Of Low Thyroid Levels

Low Thyroid Problems

Low thyroid problems occur when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Low thyroid problems are also commonly called underactive thyroid problems. The medical name for this condition is hypothyroidism. 

As mentioned elsewhere on this website, the thyroid controls multiple bodily functions. One of its most important is regulating metabolism and metabolic processes. Someone with low thyroid problems experiences a "lowering" of metabolic function, characterized by reduced energy levels, sluggishness and listlessness. Weight gain is common. Low thyroid problems in women often cause irregular or infrequent menstruation.

One of the most common low thyroid problems is a condition known as Hashimoto thyroid disease, or simply Hashimoto's. This is an autoimmune disorder. In other words, the body's own immune system attacks the thyroid and damages thyroid tissue. As a result, the thyroid produces less hormones.

Causes of low thyroid levels Low thyroid levels can be caused by the following conditions.

Tissue loss Hyperthyroidism is sometimes treated with radiation, which can cause tissue destruction.

Surgery Thyroid gland removal surgery can also cause hypothyroidism.

Exposure to abnormal amounts of iodides Iodides can be found in cold and sinus medicines, a heart medication known as amiodarone, or certain contrast dyes given before some X-rays.

Lithium Lithium is frequently used as a treatment for manic-depression. Hypothyroidism may be a possible side effect.

Antithyroid antibodies Certain physical diseases and conditions tend to cause hypothyroidism. Diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic hepatitis have antibodies that reduce thyroid hormone production.

Thyroid hormone production deficiencies When the thyroid isn't producing enough hormones, the thyroid gland may begin to enlarge. This condition is called a goiter. It's often visible as swelling in the front of the neck.

Low thyroid signs and symptoms The human body has to produce a certain level of thyroid hormones to maintain energy levels. Therefore, someone with low thyroid problems will often feel fatigued and sluggish.

Signs and symptoms of low thyroid may be different at various ages. Newborns and infants will probably have the following symptoms:

• constipation,
• poor feeding,
• jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and eyes),
• signs of tiredness and irritability.

Some of the same signs and symptoms will appear in adults, but there are also likely to be others:

• a reduction of intellectual ability
• constipation
• deeper, hoarse voice
• depression
• dry skin
• fatigue and exhaustion
• hair loss
• increased weight
• lack of appetite
• low tolerance to cold temperatures
• puffiness around the eyes

Low thyroid treatment Through the years, medical professionals and researchers have developed some successful low thyroid treatment therapies. Most patients find that treating low thyroid problems is relatively simple. A thyroid hormone pill known as Levothyroxine, when taken once a day, will usually relieve symptoms. Work with your doctor to determine the proper dosage. Improvement is possible in approximately 7 days or even less. But generally, it takes about a month.

Unfortunately, once you have low thyroid problems, they often continue for the rest of your life.