Are you feeling sluggish, and tired and feel like you are dragging yourself through toffee? Has your weight spiraled out of control, and no amount of dieting or exercise is helping tip the scale to the left? Are you battling to sleep and have 3 AM anxiety for no real reason? If so, you could very well be suffering from Hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, does not produce enough thyroid hormone. The thyroid hormone helps regulate the body’s metabolism, which is the process by which the body converts food into energy.
The thyroid hormone plays a crucial role in the body’s metabolism, and when levels are too low, it can cause several symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Cold intolerance
- Dry skin and hair
- Constipation
- Depression
- Memory problems
- Muscle weakness
- Low heart rate
In more severe cases, hypothyroidism can lead to an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter), high cholesterol levels, and problems with fertility and pregnancy.
WHAT CAUSES HYPOTHYROIDISM?
There are several possible causes of hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid gland. Some of the most common causes include:
Autoimmune disorders: The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, in which the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland.
Surgery: Surgery to remove the thyroid gland, such as a thyroidectomy, can cause hypothyroidism.
Radiation treatment: Radiation treatment for cancer or other conditions can damage the thyroid gland and lead to hypothyroidism.
Medications: Certain medications, such as lithium and interferon, can interfere with thyroid hormone production and cause hypothyroidism.
Congenital hypothyroidism: Some people are born with an underactive thyroid gland, a condition known as congenital hypothyroidism.
Pituitary gland problems: The pituitary gland, located in the brain, produces a hormone called thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) that helps to regulate the thyroid gland. If the pituitary gland is not producing enough TSH, it can lead to hypothyroidism.
Other rare causes: There are a number of other rare causes of hypothyroidism, including viral infections, congenital abnormalities, and certain genetic conditions.
HYPOTHYROIDISM AND THE HEART
Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid gland, can affect the heart in a number of ways. The thyroid gland produces hormones that help regulate the body’s metabolism. Studies have shown that when these hormones are too low, it can lead to changes in heart function. Some of the ways in which hypothyroidism can affect the heart include:
Decreased heart rate: The thyroid hormone helps to regulate the heart rate, and when levels are too low, the heart may beat slower than usual.
Decreased cardiac output: Cardiac output is the amount of blood the heart pumps per minute, and low thyroid hormone levels can lead to a decrease in this measure.
Increased blood cholesterol levels: Hypothyroidism can cause an increase in LDL cholesterol, or “bad” cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
Heart failure: In severe cases of hypothyroidism, the heart may become enlarged and weakened, leading to heart failure.
TREATMENT AND KEEPING YOUR THYROID HEALTHY
It is important to note that while hypothyroidism can affect the heart, proper treatment with hormone replacement therapy can help to normalize thyroid hormone levels and improve heart function.
See our previous blog 5 Natural Ways to Boost Thyroid Health
Hypothyroidism is typically treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which involves taking daily medication to replace the missing thyroid hormone. In some cases, treatment may also involve dietary changes and supplements, such as selenium and ashwagandha. It is essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the most effective treatment plan for your individual needs.
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms and think you may have hypothyroidism, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
