Condition

What is it?

Hypothyroidism is a decrease in the production and secretion of thyroid hormones which means, in turn, a decrease in the basal metabolic rate of the body.

What causes it?

The most common cause of low thyroid function is Hashmoto’s disease, an autoimmune process. The many symptoms of hypothyroid include unexplained weight gain, extreme fatigue, hair loss, constipation, depression, and sensitivity to cold.

While true hypothyroid occurs in less than 0.5% of the population, subclinical hypothyroid characterized by labs in the lower range of normal affects 5-8% of patients. More common in women than men and in the older population (over 60), low thyroid function seems related, as well to other hormonal changes throughout life.

In addition, it is important to remember that hypothyroidism can cause infertility and a higher risk for miscarriage.

What if I have it?

Many patients with hypothyroidism take prescription hormones to treat their condition. Often, with this medication, patient’s labs return to normal. But, it is also common for these individuals to continue to feel sick, tired and slow, despite treatment.