Recognizing Thyroid Deficiency

The thyroid gland is located on the front of the neck and secretes the thyroid hormones-thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). It is believed that T3 is the most active form of the thyroid hormone. Due to one or more reasons, the production and secretion of thyroid hormones may decrease.

1. It could be due to decreased synthesis in the thyroid gland.

2. It could be due to a blockage in the mechanism which releases the thyroid hormones

3. There may be decreased synthesis and release of the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) from the pituitary gland.

4. This decrease could also be due to decreased release of TRH (TSH releasing factor) from the hypothalamus.

The ultimate result is that there is a decrease in the circulating levels of thyroid hormones. This condition is known as hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is indicated by several symptoms.

1. Fatigue and general weakness

The thyroid hormones promote metabolism. In hypothyroidism metabolism becomes sluggish and because of this energy conservation in the body decreases and naturally, one feels weak and tired.

2. Depression

This is also an outcome of depressed metabolism and decreased energy conservation. Naturally, the energy-intensive neurotransmission is affected. This is also the reason for feeling fatigued.

3. Hair loss

Hair loss is very common in hypothyroidism. Baldness is very rare in women. But, in hypothyroidism, women tend to go near bald by losing most of their hair. In some cases, hair thinning is also seen.

4. Brittle nails

Nails are made of structural proteins. The synthesis of this protein is also affected in hypothyroidism. This, results in brittle nails which tend to break off easily.

5. Feeling cold

Hypothyroid individuals, because of poor metabolic rates, are unable to generate sufficient heat in the body. Hence, they exhibit cold intolerance.

6. Impaired memory

Poor neurotransmission due to a sluggish metabolism leads to decline in cognitive functions. This includes memory loss.

7. Decreased sex drive

This is an obvious symptom only to be expected. A tired and weakened individual would have no desire for sex.

8. Weight gain

Poor metabolic rate results in fewer calories are being burnt in the body. Adding to this is the state of inactivity brought about by fatigue and weakness. All this contributes to the weight gain observed in hypothyroidism.

Recognizing the symptoms of hypothyroidism is important as early treatment is essential to alleviate the problems encountered.