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Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland is in front of the
windpipe, just below the voice box. It is responsible for making, storing and releasing thyroid hormones, which regulate the how the body uses
energy.
Risk Factors
Older women are at highest risk of getting hypothyroidism. Your risk of getting the condition increases with age. If you have a family history
of hypothyroidism, you are also at greater risk.
Causes
Hashimoto's thyroiditis - The most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States, this is a condition in which the immune system
produces antibodies that destroy healthy thyroid tissue. It occurs most often in women and older adults, and can often go unnoticed for years.
Surgical removal of the thyroid gland - This is sometimes used to treat thyroid cancer or other thyroid conditions. When all the thyroid gland
tissue is removed or when the remaining thyroid tissue does not function properly, hypothyroidism can result.
Radioactive iodine therapy - This can also be used to treat thyroid conditions. Since it destroys thyroid tissue, it can lead to
hypothyroidism.
Pregnancy - A small percentage of women develop hypothyroidism during or after pregnancy because an increased amount of thyroid hormones
is produced during pregnancy.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hypothyroidism vary from person to person, depending on the severity of the condition and the person's age. Some possible
symptoms include:
- Feeling tired, sluggish, or weak
- Memory problems or difficulty concentrating
- Depression
- Intolerance to cold temperatures.
- Dry skin, brittle nails, or a yellowish tint to the skin.
- Constipation.
- Heavy or irregular menstrual periods
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