Hypothyroidism is sometimes called an under-active thyroid. If you ignore hypothyroidism symptoms, you can experience several long term complications, including obesity, heart disease, and even infertility. Hypothyroidism affects women more often than men. You should understand this condition and learn how to watch out for the warning signs of hypothyroidism.
Key Points
- Hypothyroidism symptoms often develop over time. Initially, the only feeling you may have is a general feeling of fatigue.
- Hypothyroidism is treatable. By taking your prescribed medication, you can live a normal life.
- You should begin to feel better about one to two weeks after beginning treatment.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Your thyroid gland is a small gland located near the base of your neck and near your Adam's apple. Your thyroid gland is responsible for producing the hormones responsible for maintaining a proper level of metabolism. When your body doesn't produce enough of these hormones, you begin to suffer from the effects of hypothyroidism.
There are several hypothyroidism symptoms you should watch out for. Remember, hypothyroidism is treatable, but only if you can be diagnosed with it. Know the symptoms so that you take charge of your health.
The list of hypothyroidism symptoms includes becoming increasingly sensitive to cold, a puffy face, a hoarse voice, unexplained weight gain, aches in your muscles, depression, and swelling joints. It may also include skin that is dry and pale, and menstrual periods that are heavier than normal.
Unfortunately, hypothyroidism symptoms come on very gradually and they become very hard to notice since they can easily be attributed to other reasons. In fact, sometimes the only early symptom you can notice is a general feeling of fatigue.
If you think that you may be exhibiting hypothyroidism symptoms, it's a good idea to seek out medical treatment to have your hormone levels examined.
Hypothyroidism Treatment & Prognosis
Treatment involves taking thyroid hormones to return your thyroid's hormone levels back to normal. This is generally a daily pill you'll have to take. Since hypothyroidism is generally a lifelong condition, you'll have to take this medication for the rest of your life. Your doctor may want to check your thyroid each year to ensure your medication doesn't need adjustment.
Once treatment begins, you should begin feeling better after one to two weeks. It could take some time for your doctor to get your medication just right, so don't be alarmed if you don't feel much better after taking your medication for a couple of weeks. Your doctor will check your thyroid levels six to eight weeks after you start your medication; if they need to make adjustments, they will.
Some foods and medications can affect your body's ability to absorb the treatment for hypothyroidism, so make sure you talk to your doctor about the food you eat and the medication you take. This includes any dietary supplements you might be taking.
The prognosis for hypothyroidism with treatment is great. With treatment, you should be able to live a perfectly normal life. Without treatment, hypothyroidism can cause additional complications that can have a significant impact on your quality of life. If you believe you are suffering from this condition, talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
Do not take the content of this article as professional medical advice. It's important to exercise due diligence when obtaining relevant information in matters pertaining to your health. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.