Low Thyroid Side Effects
Low thyroid, or hypothyroidism, is a disease caused by not enough thyroid hormone being produced by your body. Low levels of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) can affect all functions in the body. Treatment can reverse the symptoms of low thyroid.
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Function
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The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that is located in the front of your neck. It makes hormones that control your body's metabolism.
Diagnosis
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A doctor will ask your symptoms and do a blood test to check the T3 and T4 hormone levels.
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Warning
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Depression and obesity are serious side effects of low thyroid levels.
Effects
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Low thyroid levels can cause a patient to feel tired and weak, lethargic, have dry skin and brittle nails, sensitivity to cold, constipation, memory problems and heavy or irregular periods.
Treatment
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A doctor will prescribe hormone therapy with periodic testing of blood levels.
Risk Factors
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Low thyroid is more common in people over 50 years old, mostly women and those with a family history of thyroid disease.
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