What is Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is also known as an underactive thyroid gland, and means that your thyroid gland does not produce enough of a hormone called thyroxine. Thyroxine controls how much energy your body uses.
With hypothyroidism, many of the body’s functions slow down. Most cases of hypothyroidism are caused by your immune system attacking your thyroid, or a damaged thyroid.
How common is Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism affects 15 in every 1,000 women in the UK, and 1 in every 1,000 men.
What are the symptoms of Hypothyroidism?
Many symptoms of hypothyroidism are the same as other conditions, and so may be mistaken for something else. Common symptoms include sensitivity to the cold, weight gain, constipation, depression, tiredness, slowness, muscles aches and pains, dry skin and brittle hair and nails.
How is Hypothyroidism treated?
If you have hypothyroidism without any symptoms or very mild symptoms, you may not need any treatment. Treatment usually includes taking hormone replacement tablets.
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