Hypothyroidism refers to when the thyroid gland, which is responsible for producing hormones that control growth and metabolism, is underactive. Women develop hypothyroidism more often than men; the risk of hypothyroidism increases as people age and affects 10 percent of women and 6 percent of men, according to the Merck Manual. Hypothyroidism can be caused by disease in the thyroid itself, by certain medications and by autoimmune diseases. Treatment for hypothyroidism is thyroid hormone replacement medication. Because the thyroid controls so many different body functions, the symptoms of hypothyroidism vary.
Integumentary Symptoms
Hypothyroidism causes many changes in the integumentary system, which encompasses the skin, hair and nails. Hair may become dry, brittle and lifeless; hair may thin or fall out. Fingernails may also be brittle. Skin may be thick, dry and scaly. The tongue may be enlarged, and the person with hypothyroidism may have a pale, puffy face related to fluid retention; swelling may be most pronounced around the eyes, and the eyelids may droop. Carotonemia, a yellowing of the skin on the palms and soles of the feet caused by carotene deposits in the skin, may occur. People with hypothyroidism may also be extremely sensitive to the cold. Paresthesias, or tingling or the fingers and toes, may occur.
Musculoskeletal Symptoms
Musculoskeletal changes are common in hypothyroidism. A person with the disease may have muscles weakness, or aches, tenderness and stiffness in the muscles. Joint swelling may occur, along with stiffness, tenderness and aching in the joints. Loss of equilibrium, or sense of balance, may also affect people with hypothyroidism.
Mental or Personality Symptoms
Hypothyroidism can cause changes in a person's personality or mental status. A person may be depressed, have trouble concentrating, or complain of being overly fatigued or sluggish. Memory loss or forgetfulness may occur; speech may be become slow. Confusion or even psychosis can occur as a consequence of the disease, Merck states.
Reproductive Symptoms
The thyroid partially controls the reproductive hormone system. Hypothyroidism can lead to irregular or heavy periods; menstrual cycles may stop altogether. In women of reproductive age, infertility or a history of recurrent miscarriage can be signs of hypothyroidism.
Newborn Symptoms
Some infants are born with hypothyroidism. Symptoms of hypothyroidism in infants include jaundice, or yellowing of the white of the eyes and skin, an unusually large, protruding tongue, poor feeding and a puffy looking face, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Other Symptoms
Hypothyroidism can cause a slowdown in many bodily functions. Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include constipation, weight gain, elevated cholesterol, hoarse voice and a slow heart rate.
