Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism slows your metabolism and can cause symptoms such as:
- Tiredness
- Weight gain
- Constipation
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Dry skin or dry, thinning hair
- Depression
- Joint and muscle pain
- Slowed heart rate
- Heavy or irregular menstrual periods
- Slower increase in height in children
Sometimes your thyroid gland becomes bigger than normal (called goiter) and causes the front of your neck to look swollen.
Hypothyroidism often develops slowly over many years. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the thyroid so that it can’t make enough thyroid hormones. Untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to health issues like high cholesterol, high blood pressure and heart problems.
"Fortunately, hypothyroidism can often be completely controlled with a hormone medicine called levothyroxine, or Synthroid, which you take once a day on empty stomach. It is important to take it by itself, not with food or other medications.” Dr. Alsayed said. “Your doctor will likely order routine blood tests to monitor and adjust the doses if needed."
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism accelerates your body’s metabolism and can cause one or more of these symptoms:
- Increased appetite yet unintentional weight loss
- Nervousness, irritability
- Fatigue, tiredness, muscle weakness
- Increased sensitivity to heat
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Shaky hands
- Difficulty sleeping
- Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea
- Increased appetite
In people over age 60, hyperthyroidism may cause other symptoms, such as loss of appetite or withdrawal from people.
The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease. Graves’ disease is an immune system disorder that most commonly affects women under age 40. This condition can also lead to Graves’ ophthalmology, which affects tissues and muscles behind the eyes.
