The thyroid is a small gland that releases hormones to regulate metabolism. If the thyroid gland cannot make enough hormones, you may develop hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid. Hypothyroidism can be the result of a disease or a side effect of medication, among other causes. You will need medical treatment to help manage this disease and prevent serious symptoms. Symptoms may start out gradually and not be attributed to this disease. However, as the condition progresses, your symptoms will become more pronounced.
Common Symptoms
When your thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, your metabolism slows down. You will begin to experience symptoms that are mild at first but then become worse as the thyroid produces less hormones. The American Thyroid Association states that you may experience fatigue, dry skin and constipation. You may feel cold most of the time, and have trouble with your memory.
Additional Symptoms
The Hormone Foundation states that you may develop puffy skin, unexplained weight gain, muscle aches, joint pain, joint stiffness, an elevated blood cholesterol level, problems with your menstrual cycle, brittle fingernails and hair, along with swollen joints.
Other Symptoms
According to the Mayo Clinic, as the condition progresses, you may develop a goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland. If large enough, a goiter may inhibit breathing and swallowing. You may also be at an increased risk for heart disease as your cholesterol levels rise. Infertility, an increased risk of giving birth to a baby with birth defects and myxedema are additional complications. Myxedema is a severe insensitivity to cold which may cause you to become unconscious.
