You may have heard of hypothyroidism before but never understood what it actually means. Hypothyroidism is caused by the thyroid gland’s inability to make a sufficient amount of thyroxine, which is a hormone that helps maintain the body’s functions (metabolism) to work at the correct pace. Symptoms of hypothyroidism typically include fatigue, weight gain, achiness, chills, fluid retention, mental slowing, and depression. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can progress and cause a variety of complications, including:
- Birth Defects – If pregnant, and a thyroid disorder is left untreated, the child may have a higher risk of birth defects. Birth defects can be caused by the lack of the thyroid hormone, which is essential for brain development.
- Infertility – If thyroid hormone levels are too low in a woman’s body, it can have an impact on ovulation and lower the chances of conceiving.
- Goiter – A bulge may appear in your neck when your thyroid is over exerting itself in an attempt to produce a sufficient amount of hormones.
- Heart Problems – Even in its mildest form, hypothyroidism can affect the health of your heart. An underactive thyroid increases the level of bad cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease. This can lead to atherosclerosis and heart attacks or strokes. Hypothyroidism can also cause fluid buildup around the heart, which may make it more difficult for the heart to pump blood.
- Mental Health Problems – Untreated hypothyroidism has been associated with gradual decrease in mental sharpness over time. Mild hypothyroidism can cause depression, and when left untreated, the symptoms can increase.
The key to preventing complications of hypothyroidism is to understand the symptoms and seek proper treatment if you suspect a problem. It is manageable with the right treatment and doesn’t have to get in the way of your everyday life. Naperville Thyroid Clinic is offering an innovative new thyroid treatment approach that will directly address the source of your thyroid problem. Using advanced lab measurements and comprehensive functional approach, Dr. Richard Hagmeyer will diagnose the underlying cause of your thyroid problem and provide an effective treatment. Visit our thyroid treatment page for additional information: https://www.drhagmeyer.com/thyroid-treatments/ To schedule a free, 15-minute consultation with Dr. Hagmeyer, call 630-718-0555.
