Hypothyroidism
is an disease in which the gland does not produce enough thyroid . It can cause a number of symptoms, such as poor ability to tolerate cold, extreme , muscle aches, , slow heart rate, , and weight gain. Occasionally, there may be swelling of the front part of the neck due to goiter. Untreated cases of hypothyroidism during pregnancy can lead to delays in growth and intellectual development in the baby or iodine .
Underlined words are explained — tap any of them.
Symptoms — what it feels like
- · (feeling tired), poor ability to tolerate cold, muscle aches, , weight gain
Causes — why it happens
- · , thyroiditis, surgical removal of gland, iodine , lithium treatment
How it's found
- ·Blood tests (-stimulating , thyroxine)
Prevention
- ·Salt iodization
Treatment
- ·Levothyroxine
Complications
- ·During pregnancy, can result in cretinism in the baby
The sections below are general education drawn from public guidelines (NHS, Mayo, CPIC, WHO, ICMR). They are not individually reviewed by a clinician and are not medical advice — always talk to a doctor about your own health.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you feel unusually tired, gain weight easily, feel cold often, have dry skin or hair, constipation, low mood, or heavier or irregular periods. A simple blood test can check your thyroid.
Get urgent care in the rare case of extreme drowsiness, confusion, very slow breathing, or feeling very cold and unresponsive. For a newborn or during pregnancy, thyroid problems need prompt medical attention.
General guidance, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, see a doctor.
Questions to ask your doctor
- ?Which blood test confirms this, and what do my levels mean?
- ?What could be causing my thyroid to be underactive?
- ?How often should my levels be rechecked?
- ?Could this affect pregnancy or family planning?
- ?Which symptoms mean my levels may have changed?
- ?Should my thyroid be watched long term?
What to note before your visit
- ·when symptoms started and how they have changed
- ·family history of thyroid problems
- ·any past thyroid test results
- ·current medicines and supplements
Test yourself
0/4 answered4 quick questions on Hypothyroidism. Tap an answer to check it.