Hypothyroidism at a Glance
Endocrine System Topic Posted by David Mangusan Jr., PTRP
Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland produces very little thyroid hormones. Your thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in front of your neck, just below your Adam’s apple. According to the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service, thyroid hormones play an important role in metabolism, breathing, heart and nervous system functions, body temperature, muscle strength, weight, and cholesterol levels among other things.
What causes hypothyroidism?
Common causes of hypothyroidism may include Hashimoto’s disease, thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid), congenital hypothyroidism, thyroid gland that is removed surgically, radiation treatment, and certain medications.
What are its common symptoms?
Common symptoms of hypothyroidism may include fatigue or muscle weakness, cold intolerance, puffy face, slow heartbeat, and weight gain, decreased sweating, joint or muscle pain, and depression.
Hypothyroidism can be effectively treated with synthetic or man-made thyroid hormone, so long as the recommended dose is taken everyday following doctor’s orders.
View extensive discussions about hypothyroidism.
Page Last Revised: November 27, 2010
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What causes hypothyroidism?
Common causes of hypothyroidism may include Hashimoto’s disease, thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid), congenital hypothyroidism, thyroid gland that is removed surgically, radiation treatment, and certain medications.
What are its common symptoms?
Common symptoms of hypothyroidism may include fatigue or muscle weakness, cold intolerance, puffy face, slow heartbeat, and weight gain, decreased sweating, joint or muscle pain, and depression.
Hypothyroidism can be effectively treated with synthetic or man-made thyroid hormone, so long as the recommended dose is taken everyday following doctor’s orders.
View extensive discussions about hypothyroidism.
Page Last Revised: November 27, 2010
[Top of Page]
