A small gland located at the base of the neck, the thyroid, is the primary gland that controls and manages your body’s metabolism. A part of the larger endocrine system, which controls your body’s homeostasis, a thyroid disorder can have serious effects on the body. The two types of thyroid disease include:
- Hyperthyroidism, when the thyroid produces too much of thyroid hormones
- Hypothyroidism, when the thyroid does not produce a sufficient amount of thyroid hormones
Hypothyroidism affects millions of Americans, and you should be aware of its effects, in case you ever notice them. Let’s take a closer look.
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Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs, as said above, when there is an underactive creation of thyroid hormones. Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
- Fatigue
- Dry and itchy skin
- Brain fog
- Constipation
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Hair loss
- Muscle weakness
- Weight gain
These symptoms alone tend to not tell the complete story about whether or not a person has hypothyroidism. For this reason, physicians rely on blood tests to determine whether a person is struggling with the disease. Blood tests will be used to measure the levels of thyroxine (T4), one of the primary thyroid-produced hormones, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Signs of hypothyroidism include low levels of T4 and high levels of TSH in the blood.
Treatment often comes in the form of a daily thyroid medication, which helps provide the body with its necessary metabolic regularity.
● Hashimoto’s Disease
Hashimoto’s disease, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States, with nearly 15 million Americans dealing with it. It’s the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States, affecting about 14 million Americans. The disease is an autoimmune disorder where antibodies produced by the immune system enter the bloodstream and mistakenly attack the thyroid, gradually destroying it with time. This destruction leads to a gradual decrease in the production of essential hormones, which will require medical treatment to remain healthy and safe.
Tests often begin by checking a patient’s blood, looking for increased levels of TSH and low levels of T4. The blood test will also be able to check for signs of antibodies in the blood, particularly at levels higher than should be expected. This is a clear sign that a person is struggling with Hashimoto’s disease.
To treat the disease, doctors will prescribe a daily hormone-replacement medication that will raise the levels of thyroid hormone in the body. In some cases, removal of the thyroid may be required. Treatments can vary from either introducing radiated iodine or surgical removal.
Hypothryoidism’s Effects on the Body
While we know the general effects that hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s disease has on the blood stream, what are the typical effects of hyperthyroidism on the body? Let’s take a closer look beyond basic symptoms.
● Thyroid and Hair Loss
Hair loss happens, but hypothyroidism causes it to happen at a much faster rate. Thyroid and hair loss can be a serious annoyance for anyone, as the hormonal imbalance can lead to thinning hair, dry scalp, and eventual hair loss. However, while troublesome, there are therapies that can treat it.
● Digestive System
The lack of metabolic hormones causes serious issues to your body’s digestive systems. This slowing of digestion can lead to issues including bloating, constipation, and heartburn; moreover, the change in digestion can lead to significant stomach and intestinal pain, which can radiate to elsewhere in the body.
● Reproductive System
Men are usually unaffected when it comes to hypothyroidism and reproductive system symptoms; however, women tend to see numerous symptoms. Beyond potentially having trouble with conception women may see irregular periods or an increase in menstrual flow.
● Circulatory and Cardiovascular Systems
Hypothyroidism can lead to serious complications when it comes to your circulatory and cardiovascular systems. From high cholesterol or a slowed heart rate, to high blood pressure, the complications that come from hypothyroidism effects are wide-ranging and dangerous.
● Endocrine System
This is the primary area where your body begins to become affected. The lack of T4 and T3 hormones causes a decrease in metabolism, which will eventually lead to detrimental effects throughout the body. In truth, the reactions taking place in the endocrine system can affect every other biologic system.
● Nervous System
While you might not expect it, the initial changes taking place in your endocrine system can have a serious effect on your nervous system as well. Serious changes in metabolic processes, while affecting other bodily functions, can eventually lead to nerve damage, often referred to as peripheral neuropathy. Effects brought on by this condition involves pain, tingling, and numbness in affected parts of the body.
● Respiratory System
Due to the relaxation and weakness of major muscle groups, it can become more difficult to breathe under the effects of hypothyroidism. Common warning signs are shortness of breath and trouble breathing while exercising, either vigorously or moderately.
Take It Seriously
Hypothyroidism is a serious disease that requires attention when it is first noticed. The effects it has on the body are wide and considerable, from creating trouble remembering basic facts to dry, flaky skin, to digestive troubles.
If you are noticing any of the above symptoms, it is worth talking with your primary care physician. Even if you don’t have hypothyroidism, your doctor might find some warning signs that could show you’re at risk for it in the future. Perhaps your family medical history shows an inclination, or perhaps there’s an underlying condition causing other issues. Don’t take a risk. Keep yourself healthy and safe.