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T hyroid -
Hypothyroidism; Your Under Active Thyroid
Hypothyroidism means too little thyroid hormone
circulating in your body and is a common problem. In fact,
hypothyroidism is often present for a number of years before it is
recognized and treated. Treatment for all types of hypothyroidism is
usually straightforward.
Your thyroid gland is a small gland, normally weighing less
than one ounce, located in the front of your neck. It is made up of
two halves, called lobes, which lie along the windpipe (trachea) and
are joined together by a narrow band of thyroid tissue, known as the
isthmus. The thyroid is situated just below your “Adams Apple” or
larynx
Your thyroid gland is under the control of the pituitary
gland, a small gland the size of a peanut at the base of the brain.
When the level of thyroid hormones, (T3 & T4) drops too low, the
pituitary gland produces Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) that
stimulates the thyroid gland to produce more hormones.
Hypothyroidism can be easily diagnosed by blood test and is
completely treatable.
People with hypothyroidism may experience:
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Fatigue |
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Weakness |
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Weight gain or difficulty losing weight |
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Intolerance to cold |
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Muscle aching and cramps |
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Constipation |
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Depression |
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Memory loss |
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Abnormal menstrual cycles
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Your Doctor can perform tests to determine if you have
hypothyroidism
and prescribe a method of treatment best for your individual needs.
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