Hypothyroidism
by Dr. Thomas K. Lo
Hypothyroidism, also called underactive thyroid disease, is a common disorder. With hypothyroidism, your thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone.
The thyroid, known as the master gland, is butterfly-shaped and sits in a notch just below your throat. The function of the thyroid gland is to take iodine, found in many foods, and convert it into thyroid hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid cells combine iodine and the amino acid tyrosine to make T3 and T4. T3 and T4 are released into the blood stream and transported throughout the body, where they control metabolism (conversion of oxygen and calories to energy). Every cell in the body depends upon thyroid hormones for regulation of their metabolism, brain development, breathing, heart and nervous system functions, blood cells production, muscle and bone strength, body temperature, menstrual cycle, weight gain and loss, cholesterol levels, and skin hydration.
It makes sense that thyroid imbalances can make your life seem entirely off-kilter. The most common form of thyroid imbalance is hypothyroidism. It occurs when your thyroid is not producing enough thyroid hormone to support your daily activities.
Women often call my office because they are exhibiting thyroid symptoms. Thyroid-related issues can arise at any age and may not necessarily show up on routine lab tests. Subclinical hypothyroidism is a term used when someone is experiencing symptoms of hypothyroidism, but whose blood test results are sill in the “normal” range for thyroid hormone production.
The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism vary widely, depending on the severity of the hormone deficiency. The more obvious signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism may include: severe fatigue, loss of energy, weight gain, difficulty losing weight, depression and depressed mood, joint and muscle pain, headaches, dry skin, brittle nails, brittle hair, itchy scalp, hair loss, irregular periods, PMS symptoms, calcium metabolism difficulties, cold intolerance and lower body temperature, constipation, sleeping more than average, diminished sex drive, puffiness in face and extremities, bruising/clotting problems, allergies that suddenly appear or get worse, persistent cold sores, boils or breakouts, tingling sensation in wrists and hands that mimics carpal tunnel syndrome, memory loss, fuzzy thinking, and difficulty following conversation or train of thought.
If you suffer from any of the above symptoms, seek a free consultation or attend one of the free classes offered at the Nutritional Healing Center. You may find the probable causes of hypothyroidism. For more information, or to register, please call 240-651-1650.
