Overview
Hypothyroidism means the thyroid gland in the neck is not making enough thyroid hormone, which slows the body's metabolism. It is especially common in women. Symptoms creep in gradually — tiredness, weight gain, feeling cold — and are easy to miss. A simple blood test (TSH) confirms it, and a daily tablet of thyroid hormone usually restores normal life completely.
Symptoms
- Tiredness and sluggishness
- Weight gain despite no change in diet
- Feeling cold when others are comfortable
- Dry skin, hair fall and constipation
- Irregular or heavy periods
- Puffiness of the face
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you have persistent tiredness, unexplained weight gain or hair fall — a TSH blood test settles the question. Pregnant women with thyroid problems need closer monitoring.
Causes
Most often an autoimmune condition (Hashimoto's thyroiditis) or iodine deficiency; it can also follow thyroid surgery or certain medicines.