Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones to meet the needs of the body. The thyroid is underactive.The opposite is hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone. However, the link between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism is complex, and one can lead to the other, in certain circumstances.Thyroid hormones regulate METABOLISM, or the way the body uses energy. If thyroxine levels are low, many of the body’s functions slow down.About 4.6 percent of the population aged 12 years and above in the United States has hypothyroidism.The thyroid gland is found in the front of the neck below the larynx, or voice box, and has two lobes, one on each side of the windpipe.It is an endocrine gland, made up of special cells that make hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers that relay information to the organs and tissues of the body, controlling processes such as metabolism, growth, and mood.The production of thyroid hormones is regulated by thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which is made by the pituitary gland.This, in turn, is regulated by the hypothalamus, a region of the brain. TSH ensures that enough thyroid hormones are made to meet the needs of the body.Fast facts on hypothyroidismThe thyroid gland produces two thyroid hormones, TS3 and TS4.These hormones regulate the body’s metabolism.The most common cause of hypothyroidism in the U.S. is Hashimoto’s disease.Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, cold intolerance, and joint and muscle pain.SymptomsHypothyroidismShare on PinterestHypothyroidism refers to the underproduction of hormones in the thyroid gland. It has a wide range of symptoms.Thyroid hormones affect multiple organ SYSTEMS, so the symptoms of hypothyroidism are wide-ranging and diverse.The thyroid creates two thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These regulate metabolism, and they also affect the following functions:brain developmentbreathingheart and nervous system functionsbody temperaturemuscle strengthskin drynessmenstrual cyclesweightcholesterol levelsSymptoms of hypothyroidism commonly include, but are not limited to:fatigueweight gaincold intoleranceslowed heart RATE, movements, and speechjoint and muscle pain, cramps, and weaknessconstipationdry skinthin, brittle hair or fingernailsdecreased sweatingpins and needlesheavy periods, or menorrhagiaweaknesshigh cholesterolpuffy face, feet, and handsinsomniabalance and co-ordination issuesloss of libidorecurrent urinary and respiratory tract infectionsanemiadepressionIf left untreated, the following symptoms can manifest:hoarsenesspuffiness in the facethinned or missing eyebrowsslow heart ratehearing lossIf it develops in children or teenagers, the signs and symptoms are generally the same as adults.However, they may also experience:poor growthdelayed development of teethpoor mental developmentdelayed pubertyHypothyroidism develops slowly. Symptoms may go unnoticed for a long time, and they may be vague and general.Symptoms vary a great deal between individuals, and they are shared by other conditions. The only way to obtain a concrete diagnosis is through a blood test.TreatmentTreatment for hypothyroidism focuses on supplementing the thyroid hormone. At present, doctors cannot cure hypothyroidism but they can help people to control it in most cases.Synthetic thyroxineTo replenish levels, doctors usually prescribe synthetic thyroxine, a medication that is identical to the T4 hormone. Doctors may recommend taking this in the morning before eating each day.Dosage is determined by the patient’s history, symptoms, and current TSH level. Doctors will regularly monitor the patient’s blood to determine if the dosage of synthetic T4 needs to be adjusted.Regular monitoring will be REQUIRED, but the frequency of blood tests will likely decrease over time.Iodine and nutritionIodine is an essential mineral for thyroid function. Iodine deficiency is one of the most common causes of goiter development, or abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland.Maintaining adequate iodine intake is important for most people, but those with autoimmune thyroid disease can be particularly sensitive to the effects of iodine, meaning that it can trigger or worsen hypothyroidism.They should inform their doctor if they are sensitive to the effects of iodine.People with hypothyroidism should discuss any major dietary changes with their doctor, especially when starting a high fiber diet, or eating lots of soy or cruciferous vegetables.Diet can affect the way in which the body absorbs thyroid medication.During pregnancy, iodine requirements increase. Using iodized salt in the diet and taking prenatal vitamins can maintain the required levels of iodine.