Symptoms of hypothyroidism in women

There are different signs of hypothyroidism in women and they can vary from weakness to serious health issues. Here are some facts about what reasons and signs of hypothyroidism could be. The lack of hormones produced by thyroid gland causes hypothyroidism. This condition usually affects women who are between 35 and 60 years old and it can develop due to the dysfunction of the thyroid gland or pituitary gland. This happens when pituitary gland doesn't secrete TSH, which is very important for the normal functioning of thyroid gland. TSH actually forces the thyroid gland to produce two chemicals: thyroxine and triiodotyroxine. This is a very frequent disorder among women, but many of them don't even know that they need medical help.

What causes hypothyroidism in women?

Reasons for hypothyroidism can be different, but it is often caused by an abnormal function of this gland, certain types of cancers or if the thyroid gland is removed surgically. One can also develop this condition due to iodine therapy that destroys the hyperactive thyroid gland. Basically, this all means that hypothyroidism is in most cases developed if the thyroid gland is removed or if it functions abnormally. Still, this problem may appear due to different infections, whether they are caused by a virus or bacteria. Pregnant women can suffer from hypothyroidism because the need for the thyroid hormone is increased during that period. In some rare cases, dysfunction of the pituitary gland can cause hypothyroidism.

What are the main symptoms of hypothyroidism?

Sometimes, when the thyroid gland secrets slightly lower amounts of hormones, the symptoms may even not appear. In other cases, the signs are developing slowly and it takes time for a person to realize that a medical help is required. The usual symptoms include vertigo, bad mood, weariness, changes on the hair and nails, loss of strength, loss of weight, changes in the menstrual cycle, lack of libido, pain in the muscles, sterility, irregular bowel movements, psychological changes, and problems with breathing.

What does the treatment for hypothyroidism consist of?

The treatment usually involves a hormone therapy, where a woman gets hormones that she needs by drugs, because her body doesn't produces enough hormones. The signs of hypothyroidism will disappear after the beginning of the treatment, but if the condition is caused by an infection, first you have to cure the infection and then the symptoms will go away. During the pregnancy, hypothyroidism should be treated right away, but with great care. Women who are expecting a baby and suffer from this condition should first try to cure it with the help of natural remedies.