The thyroid gland is responsible for many vital processes in the body. Thyroid hormones control metabolism specifically, but most functions in the body suffer when the thyroid gland hormone production is out of balance. The thyroid gland can be underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism).
Hypothyroidism is a result of an underactive gland and many times requires life-long hormone replacement therapy. It can be caused by an infection, an autoimmune condition, Hashimoto's disease, radiation treatment, injury, surgical removal of the gland or part of it, or birth defect. Hypothyroidism runs in families, and it can be detected with a blood test.
Slow Metabolism
Among the first side effects of a poorly functioning thyroid are fatigue and sluggishness. When the metabolism slows down, the body just doesn't have enough energy to function normally. Many times hypothyroidism goes undetected at this point when patients think fatigue is a normal sign of getting older.
Dry And Pale Skin
Pale, dry skin can be hard to detect as a side effect of hypothyroidism. There are so many other reasons for skin conditions, that it can be among the last side effects recognized.
Digestion and Weight Gain
A slowing metabolism can cause constipation and weight gain, two very common side effects. Hypothyroidism additionally causes poor exercise tolerance, which also makes it harder to overcome digestive problems.
Mood Changes
Thought processes may slow down when hypothyroidism progresses. Forgetfulness and depression are the effects the family notices easily, and hopefully, they will suggest a trip to the doctor's office for a closer look.
Enlarged Thyroid Gland
The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped endocrine gland in the neck just above collarbones. When the gland is not able to make enough hormones for the body, it compensates by growing larger. It may become clearly visible (goiter) and put pressure to the neck, causing hoarseness, cough and trouble swallowing. Surgery is an option to reduce the size of very large goiter, and medication usually reduces the size of the goiter with time.
Low Body Temperature
Feeling cold when everyone else is feeling fine and warm, may be a side effect of hypothyroidism. Sensitivity to cold increases when the metabolism slows down.
Hoarce Voice
Hoarseness that lasts for weeks needs your doctor's attention, if there isn't any other apparent reason for it like inflammation of the larynx. A hoarse voice is a late symptom of the disease, if hypothyroidism if left untreated.
Joint and Muscle Effects
Joint pain, muscle aches, stiffness, swelling and inflammation of the smaller joints like the knees are reported side effects of hypothyroidism. Tenderness of the hips and shoulders may bother some people, and the hands, legs and face may become puffy.
Warnings
Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to severe complications like heart failure, infertility and a life-threatening condition called the myxedema coma. Possible complications during pregnancy are miscarriage, anemia, heart failure, preeclampsia and severe disabilities in the baby.
