Underactive Thyroid Causes

Underactive Thyroid Problems

Underactive thyroid problems are also known as low thyroid problems. As these names imply, low thyroid problems result from the underproduction of thyroid hormones. The medical name for a low thyroid condition is hypothyroidism.

A hypoactive or underactive thyroid is often characterized by sluggishness or listlessness. Weight gain and irregular infrequent menstruation in women are also typical. See thyroid problems in women. If it is untreated, hypothyroidism can cause a condition known as a myxedema coma, which is a rare but sometimes fatal condition.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks and damages thyroid tissue, leading to lower hormone production.

Underactive thyroid problems are especially dangerous for newborns and infants because they can lead to the mental retardation and stunted growth. In the United States, the thyroid levels of infants is usually checked soon after birth. If levels are low, treatment begins immediately. Underactive thyroid problems can usually be diagnosed with a simple blood test.

Underactive thyroid causes Causes of underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism include:

Loss of tissue When underactive thyroid problems are treated with radiation, tissue destruction may occur. Surgical removal of thyroid tissue can also cause hypothyroidism.

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

Lithium This drug is often used to treat manic-depression. But one believed that one of it's side effects can be underactive thyroid.

Antithyroid antibodies People who have diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic hepatitis may have antibodies that cause decreased thyroid hormone production.

Congenital factors Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid can appear at birth, but thanks to a nationwide infant screening program it is usually diagnosed and treated quickly.

Thyroid hormone production deficiencies This condition usually results in a goiter, which is an enlargement of the thyroid gland itself. A goiter is often visible as swelling in the front of the neck.

What are the symptoms of underactive thyroid The body's requires a certain level of thyroid hormone production to maintain energy levels. Therefore, as mentioned above, fatigue, sluggishness a general lack of energy are typical symptoms of an underactive thyroid.

Symptoms vary somewhat by age. Infants will experience constipation, poor feeding, excessive tiredness and irritabiility, and possibly jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and eyes). 

Symptoms of underactive thyroid in adults could include

• overwhelming fatigue
• unusual sensitivity to cold temperatures
• difficult bowel movements and constipation 
• increased weight despite a lowered appetite
• dry skin
• loss of hair and changes in hair texture
• reduced cognitive and intellectual ability
• a hoarse voice
• puffiness around the eyes
• depression

Treatment of underactive thyroid Generally speaking, treatment of underactive thyroid is relatively simple. Simply taking thyroid supplements, especially a thyroid hormone pill known as Levothyroxine once a day will relieve symptoms. Levothyroxine is a pure synthetic made in a laboratory and is formulated to be an exact replacement for a key hormone known as T4. It's important, of course, to determine a proper dosage. This can be done by working with your doctor.

Following a thyroid diet plan will also help.

Some patients will notice improvement in as little as a week or two, but it's often about a month before the patient begins to feel normal. Once underactive thyroid problems have begun, they often continue for the rest of the patient's life. 

 

     

 

 

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