what are the Symptoms of Hypothyroidism?
The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism vary widely, depending on the severity of the hormone deficiency. But in general, any problems you do have tend to develop slowly, often over a number of years. In the initial stage, you may able to notice the symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as fatigue and sluggishness, or you may simply attribute them to getting older. But as your biological process weakens, you may develop more evident signs and symptoms.
Constipation, unexplained weight gain, fatigue, sluggishness, a puffy face, pale, dry skin, brittle fingernails and hair, an elevated blood cholesterol level, increased sensitivity to cold, heavier than normal menstrual periods , muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness, pain, stiffness or swelling in your joints, depression , muscle weakness and hoarse voice are some of the symptoms associated with Hypothyroidism.
If hypothyroidism is not treated well, the disease may become more severe. Continuous stimulation of your thyroid to release more hormones may lead to an enlarged thyroid or goiter. Moreover, you may develop forgetfulness, your thought processes may slow or you may feel depressed. Myxedema or advanced hypothyroidism is rare; it can be life-threatening. Signs and symptoms include decreased body temperature, low blood pressure, decreased breathing, unresponsiveness and even coma.
Hypothyroidism in children and teens
Hypothyroidism usually affects middle-aged and older women; even though anyone can develop the condition, including infants and teenagers. Babies born without a thyroid gland or with a gland that does not work properly may have few symptoms and signs. Some of the problems with hypothyroidism in newborns are Jaundice, a puffy appearance to the face, damaged red blood cells, problems with hypothyroidism frequent choking, and a large and protruding tongue.
As the disease progresses, infants are likely to have difficulty in feeding and may fail to grow and develop normally. They may also have excessive sleepiness, constipation and poor muscle tone. If hypothyroidism in infants is not treated well, even mild cases can pave way for severe physical and mental retardation.
In total, children and teens that develop hypothyroidism have the same signs and symptoms as adults do, but they may also experience delayed development of permanent teeth, poor mental development, poor growth, resulting in short stature and delayed puberty.
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