Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) affects more than 5 million American women. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the throat that produces thyoxin, a hormone that regulates metabolism. Unfortunately, the symptoms that occur when the thyroid isn't producing thyroxin efficently are very vague and often go undetected. The disorder is nearly as common in women in their twenties as it is in women in their forties and fifties. Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to heart damage and infetility, as well as lower IQs in babies born to sufferers.

Signs of Hypothyroidism

1. weight gain
2. depression
3. irritablility
4. irregular periods
5. muscle cramps
6. constipation
7. Sensation of cold

Why does your Thyroid slow down??

The trouble begins when there's a flareup in the body's immune system that causes it to attack the thyroid. A family history of autoimmune disease as well as thyroid disorders may increase the risk of hypothyroidism. Sometimes, an iodine deficency and disorders of the pituitary gland can contribute to hypothyroidism. In addition, pregnancy stresses the thyroid and can throw it out of whack.

Diagnosis

1. Two blood tests
   1. the Thyroid-stimulating hormone
   2. free T4
2. Doctors can check the levels of antibodies in the blood.

Treatment

• Most commonly treated with a synthetic prescription version of the thyroid hormone T4
• Side effects of the medication are minimal.
• Patients need to be constantly monitored on the medication.
• A healthy lifestyle (diet, exercise, stress-management) may also be helpful in throid treatment

Info

BY:Mattias Sjoberg
DATE:1997-07-25