Before we talk about low thyroid symptoms, lets define what is low thyroid function, or hypothyroidism. This is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not make enough hormones. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the center of the neck. Part of the endocrine system, the thyroid gland produces hormones that control metabolism. When too few hormones are produced, the thyroid becomes sluggish and symptoms of low thyroid hormone result.
Low thyroid symptoms are connected to metabolism and include:
- fatigue
- weight gain
- sluggishness
The result is often changes in the various systems in the body, including the menstrual cycle in women.
The first symptoms of low thyroid hormone are often vague and may be mistaken for other conditions and misdiagnosed. For example, many people with health problems that appear to be related to stress actually experience low thyroid symptoms, did you know that?
Most Common Initial Symptoms
Chronic fatigue, pain in muscles and joints, weight gain and sensitivity to cold are often among the first symptoms of low thyroid function. Women may notice changes in their menstrual cycles such as heavier periods. Constipation is often an early symptom of low thyroid function as well.
Other symptoms tend to become apparent as the condition progresses. For example, skin may become dry, and hair may become dull and coarse.
Another troublesome symptom of low thyroid hormone is difficulty concentrating; memory problems and "brain fog" are also common in people with low thyroid function. In addition, people with hypothyroidism may experience puffiness in the face, thinning or loss of eyebrows, and brittle nails.
How to Diagnose it?
Normally, a diagnosis of low thyroid function is made with a blood test that measures levels of the thyroid hormones T3, T4 and TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). A person with symptoms of low thyroid hormone will be diagnosed with low thyroid function (hypothyroidism) if levels of T3 and T4 are below normal and levels of TSH are high. This is because the pituitary gland sends extra thyroid stimulating hormone into the bloodstream in an effort to get the body to produce more thyroid hormones when levels are low.
How to Treat Hypothyroidism?
Typically, this condition is treated with thyroid medication to replenish hormone levels. This medication can be synthetic or natural - such as Armour.
There are also certain diet adjustments that you can follow and which can be very helpful. For example, a diet high in fiber and low sugar is good for you in this case... Well, this sounds like a good idea for almost everyone! Eating meals at regular, timed intervals seem to help keep thyroid hormone levels regulated. In addition, avoiding rawfoods that may interfere with the body's ability to produce thyroid hormones is a wise step to take. These foods, known as goitrogenic, include cabbage family vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and kale. Avoiding goitrogens while increasing the intake of vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc, and iodine can help boost thyroid function and improve low thyroid symptoms.
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