Hypothyroidism

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck, produces too few hormones. Without early intervention and treatment, hypothyroidism increases the risk of more serious issues, including weight struggles, joint pain, and heart disease. 

Though there’s no cure for hypothyroidism, treatment with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) often minimizes uncomfortable symptoms, providing relief. 

What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?

Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

• Fatigue
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Dry skin
• Weight gain
• Puffy face
• Muscle weakness
• Thinning hair
• Slowed heart rate
• Depression
• Impaired memory

As the condition progresses, you might also develop a goiter (an enlarged thyroid gland).

Who is at risk of hypothyroidism?

Anyone can experience hypothyroidism, but several factors increase your risk, including:

• Being a woman
• Being 60 or older
• Having a family history of thyroid disease
• Having an autoimmune disease
• Having a history of thyroid surgery

You’re also more likely to develop hypothyroidism if you’ve been pregnant or delivered a baby during the last six months.

When should I visit a doctor about hypothyroidism?

If you experience symptoms of hypothyroidism like dry skin or constipation and you regularly feel tired for no reason, make an appointment at All Health Medical Group. 

Following an exam, a discussion of your symptoms, and a review of your medical history, your provider can develop a custom treatment plan that aligns with your needs.  

How is hypothyroidism diagnosed?

To diagnose hypothyroidism, your All Health Medical Group provider orders a series of tests that measure the amount of thyroxine and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. 

If your sample reveals that you have low levels of thyroxine and high levels of TSH, it means you have an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).

How is hypothyroidism treated?

Treatment for hypothyroidism involves the use of a daily synthetic hormone like levothyroxine. This medication restores your hormones to balance, reducing the uncomfortable symptoms of hypothyroidism. 

Over the course of treatment, you visit All Health Medical Group for routine blood screens. After receiving the results of the tests, your provider adjusts the amount of hormones you receive as necessary.

To receive treatment for hypothyroidism, make an appointment at All Health Medical Group by calling the office today or clicking the online booking tool.