Hypothyroidism Weight Loss

Thyroid Weight Loss Problems

When people talk about thyroid weight loss problems, they usually mean they're gaining too much weight because of a thyroid problem known as hypothyroisism (low thyroid or underactive thyroid). But it's also possible that you can lose too much weight because of a thyroid problem known as hyperthyroidism. More on that in a moment.

Your thyroid gland plays an important role in maintaining your metabolism, and therefore your energy levels. When your thyroid doesn't produce enough of the hormones that help run your body - hypothyroidism - weight loss is nearly impossible.

Hypothyroidism weight loss problems Approximately four of five thyroid problems turn out to be some form of hypothyroidism. It's a much more common disorder in women. Eight times as many women have hypothyroidism as men. Oprah Winfrey's much discussed and much publicized weight loss problem turned out to be related to hypothyroidism. Thyroid weight loss problems can become a lifelong battle for someone with this disorder.

It's believed more than 25 million Americans have some type of hypothyroidism. Research has shown that about half go undiagnosed. These are probably people who have tried everything to lose weight and just can't do it.

In addition to difficulty with weight loss, hypothyroidism symptoms include cognitive and intellectual difficulties, hoarseness, constipation, skin that feels dry, puffiness around the eyes, an abnormal sensitivity to cold, and a frequent feeling of fatigue.

Thyroid weight problems problems seem to be somewhat hereditary, so if you have others in your family who have had them, you're more likely to get them too. Your risk level also goes up as you grow older.

If you have a family history of thyroid problems, or you're experiencing some of the symptoms mentioned above (especially hair loss), talk to your doctor about hypothyroidism. He or she can do a simple blood test to determine if this is one of the reasons you're having problems with weight loss.

Depending on the results of the test, your doctor may recommend thyroid medications. He or she may prescribe synthetic thyroxine, which replaces the hormone your thyroid is no longer producing in sufficient quantities. Some people improve in as little as a week, but often it takes a month or more for symptoms to subside. You and your doctor will need to work out the dosage that's best for you.

People who don't know about hypothyroidism don't understand how difficult weight loss can be when you have it. So it's important to talk to your doctor if you're doing the things you should be doing - eating a healthy diet and exercising - and you still can't bring your weight down.

Hyperthyroidism weight loss Hyperthyroidism, also known as high thyroid or overactive thyroidism, presents a different kind of thyroid weigh loss problem.

People with hyperthyroidism tend to lose weight without trying because their thyroid is producing too much hormone. As a result, their metabolism speeds up, which causes a fast heartbeat, sleep problems, and unexpected weight loss.

We have a separate section on hyperthyroidism, its symptoms and treatment. Click on hyperthyroidism for more information.

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