What is Hypothyroidism?
By Andrew Deschanes

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid is not producing enough thyroid hormone, which can be caused by:

The pituitary gland releases thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) to the thyroid to make its hormones.  The thyroid gland produces two main hormones- thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) when the thyroid receives the thyroid stimulating hormone.  The thyroid does not produce enough T3 and T4 if the pituitary gland does not release enough thyroid stimulating hormones leading to hypothyroidism.  Due to the lack of T3 and T4 the thyroid can become damaged or diseased.
 
The T3 and T4 hormones circulate in the blood and trigger metabolic processes once they enter the cells.  If the thyroid does not produce enough of the T3 and T4 hormones all the organs slow down and if left untreated can become very serious

Some symptoms of hypothyroidism are:

 • Lack of energy or unexplained fatigue
 • Irritability
 • Depression
 • Problems concentrating
 • Decrease in libido
 • Impaired memory, slowed reflexes, and brain fog
 • Weight gain in spite of diet and exercise, or unexplained weight gain
 • Increased sensitivity to heat and cold
 • Hoarse voice and slowed speech.  Sometimes voice will break or deepen.
 • Swollen or puffy skin in the face, hands, and feet
 • Hives
 • Hair loss, coarse or dry hair
 • Brittle fingernails
 • Muscle cramps and tremors
 • Migraine headaches
 • Slow heart rate
 • Shortness of breath
 • Abnormal menstrual cycles, coupled with infertility
 • Anemia
 • Constipation
 • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms schedule an appointment with your doctor ASAP. I know from personal experience that this is something you should not delay.

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