The Signs & Symptoms of Secondary Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a common cause of unexplained weight gain and an inability to lose weight. A lesser known condition is secondary hypothyroidism, which has many of the same symptoms as primary hypothyroidism, but does not have the same cause or treatment.
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The Thyroid's Job
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The thyroid is a small gland located just below the voice box. Its job is to regulate metabolism.
The Thyroid and the Pituitary Gland
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The pituitary gland along with they hypothalamus regulate the release of hormones from the thyroid that maintain metabolism.
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Primary vs. Secondary Hypothyroidism
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Primary hypothyroidism is caused by a failure of the thyroid itself. Secondary hypothyroidism is caused by the failure of the pituitary gland. If the pituitary gland stops working, it no longer regulates the thyroid.
First Symptoms
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Early symptoms can include exhaustion, brittle finger nails, feelings of depression, muscle aches and weight gain.
Late Symptoms
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As the condition progresses, loss of voice, irregular menstrual cycles in women, thinning eyebrows, slowed speech and dry flaky skin can occur.
Treatment
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Treatment for secondary hypothyroidism will be a course of hormones to replace those not being made by the thyroid and pituitary gland. In addition, a low-calorie, high-fiber diet is recommended.
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