Hypothyroidism...

Today's article comes from WebMd.com and hits home for me. I have been quietly fighting with Hypothyroidism for a few months now. I am finally finding relief in knowing that my uncharacteristic feelings, emotions and illness has a name and it was not just me losing my mind. I have been battling multiple symptoms and treating each one separately not knowing that I in fact had a thyroid problem. Today I will discuss the symptoms of Hypothyroidism and tomorrow we will talk treatment. Much Love, Bridget!

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition characterized by abnormally low thyroid hormone production. There are many disorders that result in hypothyroidism. These disorders may directly or indirectly involve the thyroid gland. Because thyroid hormone affects growth, development, and many cellular processes, inadequate thyroid hormone has widespread consequences for the body.

What are thyroid hormones?

Thyroid hormones are produced by the thyroid gland. This gland is located in the lower part of the neck, below the Adam's apple. The gland wraps around the windpipe (trachea) and has a shape that is similar to a butterfly - formed by two wings (lobes) and attached by a middle part (isthmus).

The thyroid gland uses iodine (mostly available from the diet in foods such as seafood, bread, and salt) to produce thyroid hormones. The two most important thyroid hormones are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which account for 99% and 1% of thyroid hormones present in the blood respectively. However, the hormone with the most biological activity is T3. Once released from the thyroid gland into the blood, a large amount of T4 is converted into T3 - the active hormone that affects the metabolism of cells.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism usually appear slowly over months or years. Symptoms and signs may include:

•      Coarse and thinning hair.

•      Dry skin.

•      Brittle nails.

•      A yellowish tint to the skin.

•      Slow body movements.

•     Cold skin.

•      Inability to tolerate cold.

•      Feeling tired, sluggish, or weak.

•     Memory problems, depression, or problems concentrating.

•      Constipation.

•      Heavy or irregular menstrual periods that may last longer than 5 to 7 days.

•     An enlarged thyroid gland (goiter).

•     Modest weight gain, often 10 lb (4.5 kg) or less.

•     Swelling of the arms, hands, legs, and feet, and facial puffiness, particularly around the eyes.

•     Hoarseness.

•     Muscle aches and cramps.

In general, how bad your symptoms are depends on your age, how long you have had hypothyroidism, and the seriousness of the condition. The symptoms may be so mild and happen so slowly that they go unnoticed for years. The older you are, the more likely you are to notice symptoms.

Mild (subclinical) hypothyroidism often causes no symptoms or vague symptoms that may be attributed to aging, such as memory problems, dry skin, and fatigue.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism during and after pregnancy include fatigue, weight loss, dizziness, depression, and memory and concentration problems. Some women develop a goiter.

Because of the variety of symptoms, hypothyroidism can be mistaken for depression, especially during and after pregnancy. In older people, it may be confused with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and other conditions that cause memory problems.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism in infants, children, and teens

Although rare, hypothyroidism can occur in infants, children, and teens. In infants, symptoms of a goiter include a poor appetite and choking on food. Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include dry, scaly skin. In children and teens, symptoms include behavior problems and changes in school performance. Children and teens may gain weight and yet have a slowed growth rate. Teens may have delayed puberty and look much younger than their age.