Hypothyroidism (decreased activity of the thyroid gland) is an endocrine condition which presents with a wide range of signs and symptoms.  The hopes are that the patient will recognize some of the symptoms associated with this disease and seek medical attention as soon as possible.  Early detection and treatment of hypothyroidism  can prevent serious medical problems in the future.

 Hypothyroidism causes  the metabolism to decrease which results in the slowing of the normal functions of the entire body.  The most common symptom reported by patients is a feeling that he/she has lost energy or feels fatigued. Other common symptoms include weight gain, in spite of a reduced appetite, and constipation, when there is slowed functioning of the digestive system (decreased peristalsis).

Signs of hypothyroidism include skin that is dry, coarse and/or cool to the touch. The coolness is due to the constriction of peripheral blood vessels and therefore reduction of blood flow (warmth) to the extremities. The skin can also appear yellowish due to the increase in levels of carotene in the blood, however this is less common. Some patients report their hair being dry, without luster, and even make notice of marked hair loss.   

Among females, there may be menstrual abnormalities leading to irregular, excessive bleeding (menorrhagia). Lack of libido and sterility (failure of ovulation in women and decreased sperm count in men) are also an important manifestations of the disease.  Thyroid function blood tests may be recommended in cases of sterility as well as in cases of dysfunctional uterine bleeding, especially when there is no obvious cause to explain these disorders.

There are other, less common manifestations of hypothyroidism, including lowered pulse/heart rate, reductions in pulse pressure (i.e; the systolic pressure becomes low, while the diastolic blood pressure is elevated), and low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia). In some cases, heart complications can develop such as pericardial effusion (i.e. fluid in the pericardial cavity around the heart), which markedly disturbs the proper functioning of the heart. Myxedema is also a serious complication of undiagnosed hypothyroidism which can present with mania, unsteady gait, and even lead to loss of consciousness.

Hypothyroidism is a treatable disease at all stages. The patient should approach the idea of treatment with oral medications with patience, and with the hope of full recovery and a return to an active and healthy life.

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