What is hypothyroidism?

Symptoms of hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism often begins slowly. Its symptoms can be mistaken for stress, depression, or other health problems. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue.
• Unplanned weight gain.
• Muscle weakness.
• Muscle aches, cramps, tenderness, or stiffness.
• Increased sensitivity to cold.
• Constipation.
• Pale, dry skin.
• Puffy face.
• Hoarse voice.
• Elevatedblood
• Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling.
• Changes in menstrual patterns, such as heavier flow.

What causes hypothyroidism?

The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto’s disease. Normally, the immune system helps protect the body against viruses, bacteria, and other substances. An autoimmune disease causes it to attack your body’s tissues and/or organs. With Hashimoto’s, the immune system attacks the thyroid and keeps it from producing enough hormones.

Hypothyroidism treatment

Treatment for hypothyroidism is a synthetic thyroid hormone. You take the supplement daily in pill form. This medicine regulates your hormone levels and helps relieve symptoms. Over time, your metabolism goes back to normal. The medicine helps to lower your LDL cholesterol and may reverse some weight gain.