Hypothyroidism: Understanding Thyroid Deficiency - Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

The medical term for a thyroid deficiency is "hypothyroidism." This occurs when the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland below the Adam's apple, doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones.

Importance

• The thyroid gland produces two hormones, thyroxine---aka T4---and triiodothyronine, or T3. The combination of these hormones helps regulate the body's metabolism.

Cause

• Hypothyroidism can develop due to a number of reasons, including an autoimmune disease called Hashimoto's thyroiditis, radiation therapy or thyroid surgery. Some less common causes are pregnancy and congenital disease.

Symptoms

• The most common symptoms of a thyroid deficiency are fatigue, cold intolerance and decreased libido. Memory loss, weakness or hair loss may also occur.

Diagnosis

• Based on the symptoms, a doctor may order blood tests in order to check levels of T3 and T4. The level of TSH---thyroid-stimulating hormone---will also be checked, as a higher level of TSH and lower levels of T3 and T4 is a good indication of hypothyroidism.

Treatment

• Treatment for hypothyroidism involves supplying the body with additional thyroid hormones, which can be accomplished with a daily pill of synthetic or naturally processed thyroid hormone. Regular monitoring will ensure the proper dosage over time.