Hypothyroidism Symptoms in Women

Hypothyroidism is a common thyroid problem which occurs due to deficiency of thyroid hormone in the body, that can lead to some overwhelming afflicts in women especially between the ages of 35 and 60. The condition can be an outcome of some kind of thyroid gland disorder or failure of the pituitary gland to release thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) that stimulates the thyroid gland to release its hormones called thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Hypothyroidism is more common than one can even imagine, and millions of people all across the world are suffering with it but are unaware of this health ailment. Studies show that the signs and symptoms of underactive thyroid is more severe in women than in men and have various underlying reasons for its occurrence.

Causes of Hypothyroidism

One of the most common causes for hypothyroidism is thyroid gland dysfunction post thyroidectomy, a surgical removal of thyroid gland in case of hyperthyroidism, an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter), thyroid cancer or thyroid nodules which can be overactive or cancerous. Another cause for hypothyroidism is radioactive iodine therapy to treat hyperthyroidism by destroying the thyroid gland. Hence hypothyroidism primarily occurs when thyroid gland is removed or its tissue doesn't function properly. Iodine deficiency, radiation therapy, certain medications that can interfere with the normal functioning of thyroid hormone, viral and bacterial infections which temporarily damage the gland, auto immune diseases like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, etc. are some other probable causes of hypothyroidism in women. Hypothyroidism is also quite common during pregnancy as the body requires an increased production of thyroid hormone to cope up with the changes it is going through. Though rarely, disorders of the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus can also increase the risks of hypothyroidism in women.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism symptoms usually appear over a considerable period of time, usually a couple of months and sometimes even years. Moreover in case of mild hypothyroidism usually no symptoms show up, especially during the initial stages. However, some of the common underactive thyroid symptoms in women are:

• Hair loss and thinning of hair
• Depression and dizziness
• Dry and cold skin
• Brittle nails
• Weakness, low energy or constant tiredness
• Fatigue and weight loss
• Intolerance to cold
• Elevated blood cholesterol levels
• Menstrual irregularities
• Hoarse voice
• Swelling around the eyes and droopy eyelids
• Swelling of the arms, hands and feet, and facial puffiness
• Low sex drive
• Infertility
• Constipation
• Muscle aches and cramps
• Poor concentration and impaired coordination
• Low blood pressure
• Breathing difficulties

Treatment of Hypothyroidism in Women

Since hypothyroidism in women develops mainly due to deficiency of thyroid hormone, the best way to treat this disorder is to take thyroid hormone medications prescribed by a health care provider for thyroid hormone supplementation. In most cases, the symptoms starts improving within the first week of its treatment. However, if hypothyroidism is an outcome of some infection or disease, the gland will start functioning normally after the patient recovers from the illness. Hypothyroidism treatment during pregnancy is very crucial and should be started immediately. But before taking any thyroid hormone medications, it is recommended to consult a health care provider to avoid unnecessary pregnancy complications. Apart from this, herbs like black cohosh, bladderwrack, spirulina and extra virgin coconut oil are some useful natural treatments.

Despite its various health complications, the good news is that hypothyroidism is completely treatable, especially in those patients who are keeping a constant track of their thyroid levels, taking their medications regularly, and following a healthy lifestyle.