What Causes Thyroid Problems in Women

Problems with the thyroid is one of the most common diseases that affects older women. Though, today it can occur even at a younger age, it typically strikes just before or after menopause. Apart from this, cases of thyroid problems in women after pregnancy are also increasing. Thyroid gland is situated right in the middle of the neck and it produces a hormone called thyroxine which plays a key role in managing the growth, energy and metabolism rate of the body. Because of this, thyroid problems in women are closely related to weight gain or weight loss. Any dysfunction in the thyroid gland can lead to thyroid problems that can affect women adversely and hence this condition needs immediate attention. Essentially, there are two types of thyroid problems, namely, hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

Types and Symptoms of Thyroid Problems

Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism occurs when thyroid system is underactive and produces lower thyroxine than what is needed for the smooth functioning of the body. It results in slowing the metabolism rate of the body and low or no energy production. The symptoms of hypothyroidism are as following:

• Dry skin
• Cold hands and feet
• Hair loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Insomnia
• Poor memory
• Dementia
• Heavy menstrual periods
• Lowered immune system
• Weight gain
• Depression
• Constipation
• Nervousness

Hyperthyroidism: As the name suggests, hyperthyroidism occurs when excessive thyroxine produced by the thyroid gland. It causes the metabolism rate to increase unnaturally which too has an adverse effect on various vital organs

• Weight loss
• Dry and clammy skin
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Poor memory
• Frequent defecation
• Experiencing Tremors
• Nervousness
• Light menstrual periods
• Warmer hands and feet
• Heat intolerance
• Chronic fatigue

Causes of Thyroid Problems in Women

There are different reasons why hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism occur. But one of the important underlying causes of thyroid problems in women is hormonal imbalance in the body which may take place due to various reasons.

Causes Of Hypothyroidism
There are various reasons and conditions for decreased thyroxine levels in the body.

Absence of Thyroid Gland: If the thyroid gland is removed from the body it is obvious that there will be no production of thyroxine which certainly leads to hypothyroidism.

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: This is one of the autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks the thyroid tissues damaging or killing all the tissues which results in low or no production of thyroxine.

Excessive Iodine: Exposing the body to too much iodine can result in hypothyroidism. Cold and sinus medicines and some of the heart drugs contain iodine and hence regular, unprescribed, or overconsumption of these drugs can affect the thyroid system.

Apart from this, lithium drug is also known to cause hypothyroidism. For more, read causes of hypothyroidism.

Causes of Hyperthyroidism
Though the number of patients with hyperthyroidism are low, there are many conditions that can lead to this disorder.

Graves Disease: Grave's disease is one of the most common cause of hyperthyroidism in women. This again one of the autoimmune disorder in which the thyroid is enlarged which leads to large production of thyroxine.

Inflammation of Thyroid: There are various types thyroid infections that may lead to inflammation of the gland. But, this type of hyperthyroidism generally lasts for few weeks and the gland functions well once the inflammation is reduced.

Thyroid Nodules: Thyroid nodules are like noncancerous lumps that develop in the thyroid gland which are known as toxic nodular goiter. These goiter produce excessive amount of thyroxine hormones which are hazardous for the body.

Apart from this, patients who take excessive doses of thyroid hormone in the form of medication are also vulnerable to hyperthyroidism. You can read the symptoms of hyperthyroidism to understand it better.

Now you know what causes thyroid problems in women. The treatment for thyroid problems depends on the severity, stage, and type of the thyroid problem that the patient is affected with. But, the aim of the thyroid treatment is always that of stabilizing and balancing thyroxine levels in the body. It is advisable to consult the doctors if you observe or experience any of the aforementioned symptoms so that you get the medical attention as soon as possible that can save you from further complications.