Low Thyroid Levels

The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland, located just below the larynx. It performs several important functions. T3 and T4 are two hormones that are secreted by this gland. These hormones play an important role in the process of metabolism. Sometimes, the functioning of the thyroid gland is impaired and that leads to inadequate secretion of the hormones. When the gland is unable to produce sufficient hormones, one is said to suffer from hypothyroidism. An inactive thyroid gland can cause several health problems, therefore, people suffering from low thyroid levels need to be very careful.

Causes

One of the major causes of low thyroid function is an iodine deficiency. Iodine is essential for the production of T3 and T4. If your diet doesn't include sufficient amount of iodine, you are at an increased risk of developing this thyroid disorder. A thyroid function test is generally suggested by the doctors for a proper diagnosis. A decrease in the levels of thyroid hormone can also be caused due to certain autoimmune diseases.

Those suffering from an autoimmune disease called Hashimoto's thyroiditis are at a greater risk of developing this condition. When the antibodies produced by the body's immune system are unable to distinguish the body's cells from the foreign bodies, they attack the thyroid gland. This causes low levels of thyroid. Those who have undergone thyroidectomy or chemotherapy in the neck region are also susceptible. Low levels of thyroid can also be caused due to congenital hypothyroidism or pituitary disorders. Low TSH and low T4 levels generally indicate pituitary disorders. Women are more prone to suffer from this condition than men. Women could suffer from this condition during perimenopause or pregnancy due to the interplay between the reproductive hormones and the thyroid hormones. Pregnant women could develop this condition if their body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid gland.

Treatment

So what are the repercussions of low levels of thyroid on one's body? Well, the affected individuals may experience symptoms such as dry skin, puffy face, weight gain, muscle cramps, depression, fatigue, low blood pressure, enlarged thyroid, brittle hair and fingernails and increased sensitivity to cold. Sluggish thyroid gland is characterized by the slowing down of metabolic processes. Those who have been experiencing such symptoms must consult a doctor soon. Doctors will ask them to get the thyroid blood tests done in order to make a diagnosis. T3, T4 and TSH tests will be studied together to analyze the working of the thyroid gland.

Since the body is unable to produce the thyroid hormone, synthetic thyroxine pills are prescribed to maintain normal thyroid levels. Besides taking the prescribed medicine, one must also follow the dietary guidelines suggested by the doctor. Since an iodine deficiency can lead to an underactive thyroid gland, cooking food in iodized salt might help. Including foods rich in iodine and selenium to your diet will also prove beneficial. Excessive intake of soy products and vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, kale and sweet potatoes must be avoided as these can affect the absorption of iodine. Consumption of foods rich in fibers, vitamins and proteins will also prove beneficial.

If you have been diagnosed with low this medical condition, you will need to take synthetic thyroxine pills for keeping the thyroid levels under control. Do make the necessary changes to your lifestyle.