According to estimates, millions of Americans suffer from hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Due to the wide variety of symptoms, some people might not even realize they have the condition.

Hypothyroidism is a condition that is associated with a lowered metabolic rate. Because thyroid hormones are so important for every cell in the body, a wide variety of symptoms can present itself. The overlap of symptoms of an under-active thyroid with that of other conditions, can make it difficult to receive the right diagnosis.

Typical Hypothyroidism Causes

Traditionally, low iodine levels were thought to be the cause of hypothyroidism. The thyroid is the only tissue that can take up iodine and iodine is important for thyroid hormone production. We get most of our iodine through iodized table salt.

Certain medications taken for other conditions, may interfere with thyroid functioning. Genetic factors may put you at risk for developing hypothyroidism. If you have family members who have the condition, then you are at an increased risk of developing the condition yourself.

A temporary rise in thyroid activity followed by a low output of thyroid hormone is frequently associated with a thyroid inflammation, called thyroiditis. This type of inflammation is usually caused by an auto-immune reaction, in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissue. This condition is frequently seen in post-partum women. The inflammation causes a temporary increase in thyroid production with the associated weight loss. This hyperthyroidism usually corrects itself, but may also lead to chronic hypothyroidism.

What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?

• Muscle cramps and bone pain
• Sensitivity to cold temperatures - With hypothyroidism, you become more sensitive to the cold
• Itchy skin
• Swollen hands and feet - This is due to water retention
• Lowered libido
• Dry, brittle hair
• Difficulty concentrating - When you unexpectedly find it difficult to concentrate and focus while you didn’t have problems before, then a thyroid problem could be the cause
• Increased sleepiness
• Inability to lose weight - You start to gain weight despite having the same diet
• Fatigue - This is a very general complaint that can be a sign of many different conditions
• Development of a goiter - When the thyroid gets stimulated beyond its capacity, it becomes enlarged and visible in the neck

The first line of treatment for someone who suffers from hypothyroidism, is medications. Either synthetic thyroid hormone or hormone derived from animal tissue can in most cases restore normal thyroid function. For people with mild symptoms or who prefer not to take thyroid hormone, a thyroid supplement may be helpful for their condition. In addition, certain foods that interfere with normal thyroid functioning should be avoided. If you think you may have hypothyroidism, talk to your health care professional and determine the best course of action.