Underactive Thyroid Symptoms

Also known as Hypothyroidism symptoms appear when the gland does not produce enough hormones into the bloodstream thus affecting the functionality of the organs. This causes the body processes to slow down, triggering subtle changes in the metabolism and the overall energy level.

Common signs of hypothyroidism include:

  • tiredness,
  • unexplained weight gain;
  • sensitivity to cold;
  • skin and hair dryness;
  • depression;
  • muscle aches etc.

Diagnosis and medical procedures

Physical examination is necessary. The doctor will feel both sides of your neck for nodules, and perform an ultrasound exam.

  • Ultrasound imagery can detect the presence of thyroid nodules, the size of the nodules as well as other modifications in the gland.
  • If the biopsy of the nodules is necessary, the doctor may use the ultrasound images to insert the needle and take the tissue sample.
  • Blood tests are required to measure the level of thyroid hormones in the bloodstream.
  • Determining the cause of the thyroid dysfunction may not be possible, therefore the specialist will follow the symptoms to help you regain balance in the system and good health.

Treatment

1. Hypothyroidism is not a severe health condition even if the symptoms are persistent and don’t go away without treatment.

2. Based on the blood tests, the doctor will prescribe pills to supplement the thyroid hormone, thyroxine. The dose will be adjusted until the patient feels better. When symptoms go away it means the optimal dosage has been reached.

3. Dietary changes may be necessary as well. Underactive thyroid symptoms are often the result of insufficient iodine in your diet. Seaweeds and seafood in general are rich sources of iodine. Nuts also contain iodine as well as sea salt.

4. Herbal supplements can also be used to deal with hypothyroidism. Although they don’t contain a hormonal compound, such supplements have ingredients that stimulate the natural production of thyroid hormones. Natural extracts can normalize the thyroid function.

Facts that require your attention!

  • Highly processed foods cause thyroid dysfunction, impairing the hormone secretion. Reduce the amount of fats in your meals and avoid highly processed foods.
  • Drink lots of water to prevent skin dryness and support the metabolic rate optimal.
  • Talk to the doctor about the supplements you may use in parallel so that you don’t suffer from interactions or side effects.
  • Have blood tests done periodically so that the specialist can monitor the hormone level in the bloodstream. This is the clear indicator that a certain treatment is giving results. If the hormones concentration is still too low, then, the doctor will have to slightly increase the drug dose.

These symptoms go away with treatment, but they could be back.