Underactive Thyroid Gland

Hypothyroidism, or the condition where the production of the thyroid gland falls below the normal, is commonly experienced by women. While this may not be a life or death condition, it can be very destructive if left untreated.

An underactive thyroid gland can be the result of several factors. Medicine Net has provided us with some facts about this condition.

• There are many disorders that result in hypothyroidism.
• The thyroid gland is regulated by another gland that is located in the brain, the pituitary.
• Hypothyroidism is a very common condition.
• The symptoms of hypothyroidism are often subtle.
• A blood test is used to confirm hypothyroidism.
• With the exception of certain conditions, the treatment of hypothyroidism requires life-long medication.

Source: Medicine Net

One thing that is evident in individuals suffering from an underactive thyroid gland is that they have a decreased metabolism. This then affects other normal functions of the body.

According to Net Doctor, decreased metabolism can affect every organ of the body including brain, heart, skin, intestine and muscles.

Symptoms tend to appear gradually over a long period of time. For this reason, decreased metabolism in the elderly is often mistaken for changes that take place naturally with age.

Typical symptoms of decreased metabolism are:

• decreased tolerance of cold environments
• depression and lethargy
• weight gain
• constipation
• dry, rough skin
• coarsening of the facial features and a deep voice
• thin, dry hair
• poor memory – among the elderly this may be the only symptom of decreased metabolism
• in severe cases, dementia.

Source: Net Doctor

An underactive thyroid gland should be taken seriously. Its ability to affect your daily normal functions can wreak havoc to your career without you even knowing it. So if you feel or experience the symptoms of having a decreased metabolism, better check it out with your doctor so that you may also apply the right treatment.

How to Spot an Underactive Thyroid Gland is a post from: Natural Health Magazine