What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid — a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck — produces too little thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormones (thyroxine, or T4, and triiodothyronine, or T3) act like a thermostat for your metabolism, influencing energy, body temperature, heart rate, digestion and mood. When levels drop, nearly every system runs a little slower.
Common symptoms
Symptoms often develop gradually and can be easy to miss at first.
Fatigue
Persistent tiredness even after adequate rest.
Weight gain
Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight.
Cold intolerance
Feeling cold when others are comfortable.
Brain fog
Trouble concentrating and memory lapses.
Low mood
Depression, low motivation and irritability.
Slow metabolism
Constipation, dry skin and hair thinning.
What causes it?
The most common cause worldwide is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition in which the immune system gradually attacks thyroid tissue. Other causes include thyroid surgery, radiation treatment, certain medications, iodine imbalance, and (less commonly) problems with the pituitary gland. Hypothyroidism can also appear during or after pregnancy.
How it’s diagnosed
Diagnosis is based on blood tests. A high TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) with a low free T4 typically points to an underactive thyroid. Doctors may also check thyroid antibodies to look for Hashimoto’s. Learn more from the American Thyroid Association and the U.S. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
Further reading
Many people with an underactive thyroid look into natural support alongside their treatment. These articles explore the topic in more depth: using underactive thyroid supplements to boost your health, how stress can affect your thyroid, and why vitamin B12 is critical to good health.
Where does bovine thyroid fit in?
Explore treatment options including desiccated and glandular thyroid.
Educational information only. This content is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. Always talk to your doctor before starting bovine thyroid glandular supplements or changing thyroid medication.