What is hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
Hypothyroidism means a reduced level of thyroid hormone (thyroxine). This can cause various symptoms, the most common being: tiredness, weight gain, constipation, aches, dry skin, lifeless hair and feeling cold. Treatment is usually easy by taking a tablet each day to replace the missing thyroxine. Treatment usually works well and symptoms usually go.
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?
Many symptoms can be caused by a low level of thyroxine. Basically, everything 'slows down'. Not all symptoms develop in all cases.
- Symptoms that commonly occur include: tiredness, weight gain, constipation, aches, feeling cold, dry skin, lifeless hair, fluid retention, mental slowing, and depression.
- Less common symptoms include: a hoarse voice, irregular or heavy menstrual periods in women, infertility, loss of sex drive, carpal tunnel syndrome (which causes pains and numbness in the hand), and memory loss or confusion in the elderly.
However, all these symptoms can be caused by other conditions, and sometimes the diagnosis is not obvious. Symptoms usually develop slowly, and gradually become worse over months or years as the level of thyroxine in the body gradually falls.
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Where to next?
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How is hypothyroidism treated?
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How long is the treatment for?
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In summary on Hypothyroidism
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Surgery or radioactive treatment to the thyroid gland
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What are the possible complications of hypothyroidism?
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What causes hypothyroidism?
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What is hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
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Underactive thyroid: Under the microscope
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chris clarke, about 1 year
I was diagnosed with Lupus (SLE) 4-5 years ago, now I have been told I have an underactive thryoid, and wondered if anyone else is in the same position. It can be a bit scary being told these things when you have no knowledge of the illness, I have come to terms with the lupus but now this added problem of which I know nothing, and now I am clutching at straws hoping there may be at least one other person out there with the two problems together
Report this commentHilary Egglestone, about 1 year
I was diagnosed as having Hypothyroidism by my GP only 14 days ago. Not a complete shock, more a relief. I first noticed problems such as Fluid Retentionn in my late 20's. I am now 62. As I was a Nursing Sister I was convinced that the problem must have a sloution but none of the consultants I saw could agree. Over the years everything went worse until 5 years ago, when I was diagnosed with M.E. by my GP. At least I knew I wasn't going mad. Now I have a definite diagnosis and most of the symptoms specified on your list, and will now receive treatment which will be adjusted as required. I am relieved but angry that so much of my life has been affected and spoiled. However. I now look forward to a gradually improving quality of life. Yippee!
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MKPR, about 1 year
Hi Chris I too have SLE and an underactive thryoid, although I was diagnosed first with the thyroid problem and then the Lupus. I've found the under active thyroid much less of an issue. Once my level of thyroxine was properly established I've been fine. I'm on a dose of 75mg a day and have been for 15 years. I don't know what medication you are on for Lupus but taking thyroxine should entitle you to free prescriptions. I'm not sure why this is the case but at least it's one advantage to having this latest diagnosis. I do remember my rheumatologist saying that it is very common to have two autoimmune conditions. I hope this helps, it's sort of good to know that I'm not the only one with this diagnosis, I've never come across another one! Take care.
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