Hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland just below the Adam's apple. It is the largest gland in the neck. The thyroid gland has a very large effect on the way your body functions. Its sole function is the production of the thyroid hormone which controls the body's energy level (metabolism). When your thyroid is healthy, your metabolism stays at a steady pace, neither too fast nor too slow. The pituitary gland, a peanut sized gland at the base of the brain, controls how much hormone the thyroid produces. Troubles with the thyroid gland can interfere with many aspects of life. Thankfully these problems are often easy to treat. Even most forms of thyroid cancer are treatable.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough of the thyroid hormone. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is "Hashimoto's thyroiditis". Hashimoto's thyroiditis is when the body's immune system mistakes the thyroid gland for something it needs to attack. Hypothyroidism may also occur when there's not enough iodine available for the thyroid to manufacture the hormone, if there are problems with the pituitary gland, or if the thyroid gland is removed. The following are common symptoms of hypothyroidism:
- Fatigue
- Decreased energy levels
- Slowed thinking
- Muscle pain
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Constipation
- Longer or heavier menstrual periods
- Feeling cold
- Dry and brittle nails, hair, and skin
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