Hypo means under or less. Hypothyroidism means a phenomenon in which thyroids are less active. In hypothyroidism, the thyroid glands do not work properly and produce less amount of crucial hormones. It is a common condition that is underactive thyroids that do not produce thyroid hormones and release them into the bloodstream. Signs of hypothyroidism are not noticeable in the early stages. Still, it can cause severe symptoms if the condition worsens, which is called myxedema. There are several tests on which treatment is decided for a patient.
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which thyroid glands do not work properly, produce, and release less amount of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream. Thyroid glands are present in the front of the neck, and the shape is like a butterfly. Thyroid hormones are triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These hormones are responsible for the control of metabolism. These are made up of iodine.
Signs of hypothyroidism
The signs of hypothyroidism vary from person to person and with age. Children and teens have various symptoms of hypothyroidism which are, retarded growth, late development of permanent teeth, mental development is the slow and late occurrence of puberty. Adults can show any or combination of the following signs of hypothyroidism: muscle weakness and tenderness, fatigue, dry skin, weight gain, increased sensitivity to cold, hoarseness in voice, the face being puffy, increased cholesterol levels in the blood, irregular menstrual periods, joint stiffness or swellings, hair loss, depression, and if the condition is worst, there is the enlargement of thyroid glands known as Goiter.
Facts about Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a common disease, and the facts which everyone accepts are that this disease is more common in women as compared to men. The other fact is slow metabolism which results in weight gain. People tend to gain more weight with hypothyroidism as their metabolism is slow and food is converted into fats easily. Hair thinning is also stated as a fact when people talk about signs of hypothyroidism. It is thought to be a genetic disease that passes on from generation to generation. Cold sensitivity is also because of hypothyroidism. It is also considered a fact, as thyroid glands control the body temperature.
Tips for Hypothyroidism
Different dieticians and endocrinologists recommend several tips to improve thyroid glands’ health and functions. There is no complete treatment of hypothyroidism, but you can decelerate the conditions by following these tips.
Focus on what you eat
“You are what you eat” is a universal concept. The same goes for the treatment of hypothyroidism. Keep a keen eye on what fills your body. Make a complete diet plan which must include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Lean protein is also good for the treatment of hypothyroidism. Limit the use of processed foods and diets high in carbohydrates and fats. Maintaining a diet can help you immensely with weight management. Consult a dietician and your doctor regarding your diet and any changes if you want to make.
Engage your body
Your body is like a temple. Don’t be a couch potato and treat yourself with sweets and donuts. This is detrimental to your thyroids which are already suffering. Go get yourself a gym membership and engage yourself in cardio, HIIT, weight training, and yoga. Make the proper use of your body. Regularly exercising and working out will help you manage your weight and help you destress and boost your energy. If you do not like going to the gym, add walking, running, jogging, or any outdoor sport to your routine. But consult your doctor first before trying a new exercise.
Take proper medications
Proper treatment is a key to managing hyperthyroidism. Medication will not completely eradicate the root cause of hypothyroidism, but it will help you feel better. The medication includes daily usage of synthetic thyroid hormones such as Levo-T, Synthroid, etc. the dosage may vary based on the test results revealing your TSH levels in the blood. Also, keep track of the time and watch your clock. Take the medicines daily at the same time. Medication can help you in the reversal of signs of hypothyroidism and restore hormonal levels.
Focus on your sleep-pattern
Establish a sleep pattern. The sweet spot for the best sleep is 7 to 9 hours. Follow your sleep routine, even on weekends. It is tested that sleeping less than seven hours can increase the risks of hypothyroidism occurrence. As a result of hypothyroidism, you would feel weakness and fatigue if you have unhealthy sleeping habits. To enjoy your day and perform your task, you need energy. That is why focus on sleep patterns. If you face difficulty falling asleep, consult your doctors; they may prescribe you any medicine or therapy.
Regular checkup
Visiting your doctor once a year will not do you any good. It is recommended to go for a regular checkup and follow up on the medications. It is also said to repeat your thyroid hormones tests (blood tests) every 4 to 6 months. Your doctor may prescribe you the exact dosage of the medicines according to your reports. It will also help your doctor if there is any missing or excessive medication in the ongoing treatment. Regular checkups will also help you track your symptoms and signs of hypothyroidism.
Conclusion
The above article is all about hypothyroidism. What is it? What are the signs of hypothyroidism and some facts and tips for hypothyroidism? As we all know, this is a non-reverse condition. Still, the signs and symptoms can be managed by following some tips like a healthy diet, healthy sleeping patterns, physical activities that boost energy. Most importantly, regular checkups and medication are the core treatments for hypothyroidism.
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