Hypothyroidism and PCOS: Hypothyroidism
    About Hypothyroidism:

    Thyroid conditions are among the most underdiagnosed medical conditions. Most thyroid conditions are easily treated. Because the symptoms are often masked by their similarities to other conditions, thyroid disease can be difficult to pin down. It's important to make sure your doctor checks you for thyroid problems if you fit the profile of symptoms. Although men are vulnerable to thyroid disease, thyroid conditions are most often found in women. Roughly twice as many women suffer from thyroid disease as men. There are six common thyroid conditions.
      *Hypothyroidsim is an underactive thyroid gland.
      *Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid gland.
      *Thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland.
      *Goiter is an enlarged thyroid gland.
      *Thyroid nodule is a lump in the thyroid gland.
      *Thyroid cancer is a malignant thyroid tumor.
    Hypothyroidism is the result of an underactive thyroid gland. It cab be caused by many things, including a genetic inclination to it. Hashimoto's, an autoimmune disease, is the most common cause of Hypothyroidism. Early detection can help curtail the effects of the disease. If you feel that you are at risk for hypothyroidism, please make sure to discuss it with your doctor.

    Signs and Symptons of Hypothyroidism:

    *Fatigue
    *Intolerance of Cold Temperatures
    *Constipation
    *Muscles Aching or Cramps
    *Decreased Memory
    *Depression
    *Heavy or absent menstrual periods
    *Puffy face and hands
    *Hoarseness
    *Weight gain
    *Dry skin
    *Slow heart rate

    Treating Hypothyroidism:

    Hypothyroidism is treated with thyroid hormone drugs. Many people who suffer from Hypothyroidism can be successfully treated and will go into remission. People who have been diagnosed with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis are less likely to go into remission, and will probably always need treatment.

    The most commonly used replacement hormones are synthetically created. Common brands include Synthroid and Levoxyl, although there are many generics as well. Less common are the natural replacements. These are derived from animal thyroids, normally pig thyroid, to be precise. The synthetic is normally preferred by doctors as the dosage is considered to be more consistent. Natural hormones are not always consistently distributed in the pills, and therefore can make measuring treatment success more difficult.

    Not every kind of hypothyroidism needs treatment. If you have mild or "subclinical" hypothyroidism, treatment may be unncessary. However, it is important that you and your doctor work together to monitor your thyroid in order to make sure your condition remains stable.

    Contact the author

    These pages are produced by and copyright to Carrie E. Byrd.

    Last Updated on May 8, 2003

    * "Information from Thyroid Disease and Pregnancy: get the facts" a doctor's pamphlet.