What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. Having too little of this hormone causes many symptoms. If you have any of these signs, tell your health care provider.

You may:

• Feel tired all the time.

• Have weak muscles.

• Be constipated.

• Gain weight.

• Have heavy or long monthly periods.

You may have other problems:

• You may not be able to tolerate cold.

• Your hair may be coarse, dry, or gray at a young age.

• Your skin may become thick and dry, or your face or tongue may thicken.

• Your eyelids may be swollen.

• Your voice may deepen or grow hoarse.

Still other problems include:

• Slowed heart rate.

• Depression.

• Loss of interest in sex.

• Loss of hearing.

• Numb and tingling hands.

When this disease is not treated, these problems can happen:

• Mental problems.

• Difficulty breathing.

• Loss of consciousness or even a coma.

• Swelling of the thyroid gland (goiter).

• Not being able to keep a normal body temperature.

How does it happen?

Hypothyroidism most often happens:

• If you have a disease that causes your thyroid gland to swell.

• If you have had radiation treatment for hyperthyroidism (when your thyroid makes too much hormone) or cancer.

• If you had a virus or bacteria that infected your thyroid.

How do I know if I have hypothyroidism?

You will have blood tests to measure the hormones your body makes.

How is it treated?

If you have hypothyroidism, your health care provider will prescribe thyroid hormone tablets. This will take the place of what your body would normally make.

• After you take the hormone tablets for about a week, you will feel better.

• You will have another blood test to make sure you are taking enough hormone.

• After a few months, you should have no signs of the disease.

• Most likely, you will need to take your tablets every day for the rest of your life.

Taking your hormone tablets is a simple and inexpensive way to keep healthy. It's important to:

• Take your tablets every day.

• Get your hormones checked when your health care provider suggests.

• Keep your follow-up appointments.