Table of Contents
What is hypothyroidism?
When the thyroid gland does not make enough hormones, it is known as under active thyroid or hypothyroidism. The thyroid gland is located in the front lower part of your neck and controls metabolism. It makes hormones that control heart rate, muscles, bones, and other organs.
Cancer and cancer treatment can interfere with the functions of thyroid gland. It is a treatable condition. It can be controlled with medications and follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider.
How bad is my hypothyroidism?
Mild: The symptoms include numbness, tingling, poor memory, brittle hair and nails. Most of the time, mild symptoms can be safely managed at home by following the tips given in the section below.
Moderate: It can limit your instrumental activities of daily life (preparing meals, managing money, shopping, housework, and using a telephone). The symptoms are puffy face, loss of libido, constipation, slow heart rate, and headache.
Severe: It can limit your self-care activities of daily life (eating, dressing, getting into or out of a bed or chair, taking a bath or shower, and using the toilet). You should see a doctor if you have tiredness, depression, muscle ache and weight gain.
How to manage mild hypothyroidism?
Keep track of your thyroid levels using Ankr (myAnkr web portal or the Ankr app). It will help you describe the problem to your doctor or nurse.
- Eat balanced diet. Monitor your iodine intake.
- Exercise regularly with certain limits
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Manage stress with yoga or meditation
- Practice restorative sleep habits
How to manage moderate to severe hypothyroidism?
You should see your doctor if you have symptoms including:
- Fatigue (Tiredness)
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Being sensitive to the cold
- Dry skin and hair
- Muscle Aches (Myalgia)
What are the causes?
- Certain medicines.
- Radiation therapy.
- Thyroid surgery.
- Treatment for hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
- An autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto’s disease.
- Congenital disease.
- Pituitary disorder.
- Iodine deficiency
