Health

Hypothyroidism - though it sounds scary – is far more common that most people know. In fact, it’s estimated that over five million Americans have this condition in which the body produces too little thyroid hormone to adequately control metabolism. Read on to discover the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism.

Unfortunately, many cases go undiagnosed – if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s important to check in with your doctor right away to rule out hypothyroidism.The symptoms of hypothyroidism can range from mild to severe, while some people with the condition experience no symptoms at all. Hypothyroid issues can be caused by many different factors, including poor diet, stress, medical conditions, glandular problems, goiters, Graves disease, and diabetes. Even the after-effects of prescription medication may be the culprit, so it’s important to recognize the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism and share any that you experience with your doctor.Although many of these symptoms may not sound severe, leaving them untreated is extremely dangerous. When the thyroid fails to produce enough hormone, the pituitary gland works overtime, producing more thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in an effort to jump-start the thyroid. Over time, the excess buildup of TSH can lead to an enlarged thyroid gland or goiter that requires surgery. Additionally, untreated hypothyroidism can progress to heart failure or coma – so it’s extremely important to address any concerns you have regarding these symptoms.