What Is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism, also known as underactive thyroid disease, is a common condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, plays a critical role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and overall body function. When thyroid hormone levels drop, it can lead to fatigue, weight gain, depression, and other health concerns.

📌 Key Facts About Hypothyroidism:
✔ Affects over 20 million Americans
✔ More common in women than men
✔ Can be caused by autoimmune diseases, iodine deficiency, or thyroid surgery
✔ Managed with thyroid hormone replacement therapy

What Are the Symptoms of Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism symptoms develop gradually and may go unnoticed for years. Common symptoms include:

✅ Fatigue & Low Energy – Feeling sluggish despite proper sleep
✅ Unexplained Weight Gain – Slower metabolism leading to increased weight
✅ Cold Intolerance – Feeling cold even in warm environments
✅ Depression & Mood Changes – Low thyroid hormone levels can affect mental health
✅ Dry Skin & Hair Thinning – Reduced hormone production leads to brittle hair and dry skin
✅ Slow Heart Rate & Constipation – Affects cardiovascular and digestive health
✅ Swelling in the Neck (Goiter) – Enlarged thyroid due to hormone deficiency

⚠️ Severe untreated hypothyroidism can lead to a condition called myxedema, which can cause life-threatening complications.

What Causes Hypothyroidism?

Several factors can contribute to thyroid dysfunction, including:

1. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (Autoimmune Disorder)

• Most common cause of hypothyroidism
• The immune system attacks the thyroid gland, reducing hormone production

2. Iodine Deficiency

• Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production
• Deficiency is rare in the U.S. but common in areas with low iodine intake

3. Thyroid Surgery or Radiation Treatment

• Removing the thyroid or radiation therapy for thyroid cancer can cause hypothyroidism

4. Medications

• Certain drugs (lithium, amiodarone) can interfere with thyroid function

5. Congenital Hypothyroidism

• Some babies are born with an underdeveloped thyroid gland

How Is Hypothyroidism Diagnosed?

A simple blood test can confirm an underactive thyroid.

📌 Common Tests for Hypothyroidism:
✔ TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) – High TSH levels indicate an underactive thyroid
✔ Free T4 (Thyroxine) – Measures actual thyroid hormone levels
✔ T3 (Triiodothyronine) – Used in specific cases to assess thyroid function
✔ Thyroid Antibodies Test – Checks for autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto’s)

At Health Express Clinics in Lewisville, Texas, we provide comprehensive thyroid testing to diagnose and manage hypothyroidism effectively.

Treatment Options for Hypothyroidism

The standard treatment for hypothyroidism is levothyroxine, a synthetic thyroid hormone that restores hormone levels to normal.

📌 Key Treatment Steps:

✅ Daily Medication (Levothyroxine) – Must be taken on an empty stomach
✅ Regular Blood Tests – To monitor TSH and T4 levels
✅ Lifestyle Changes – Healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management
✅ Avoid Certain Foods & Supplements – Soy, iron, and calcium supplements can interfere with thyroid medication

Answering the Top 5 Questions About Hypothyroidism

We have analyzed the most commonly searched questions about hypothyroidism. Here are the expert answers:

1. Can Hypothyroidism Be Cured?

❌ No, but it can be managed. Hypothyroidism is usually a lifelong condition that requires daily thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

2. What Happens If Hypothyroidism Goes Untreated?

🚨 If untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to:

• Severe fatigue and depression
• Heart disease and high cholesterol
• Myxedema (life-threatening hypothyroid crisis)

3. Does Diet Affect Hypothyroidism?

✅ Yes! A balanced diet helps support thyroid health.

• Foods to Eat: Iodine-rich foods (fish, dairy), selenium (Brazil nuts), and zinc (shellfish).
• Foods to Avoid: Excess soy, raw cruciferous vegetables, and gluten (if sensitive).

4. Can Hypothyroidism Cause Weight Gain?

✅ Yes, slowed metabolism can lead to weight gain.

• Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help manage weight.

5. Is Hypothyroidism More Common in Women?

✅ Yes! Women are 5–8 times more likely to develop hypothyroidism than men, especially after pregnancy or menopause.

When to See a Doctor for Hypothyroidism?

🚨 Seek medical attention if you have:
✔ Unexplained fatigue or weight gain
✔ Depression or mood changes
✔ Cold intolerance & dry skin
✔ Neck swelling or difficulty swallowing

At Health Express Clinics in Lewisville, Texas, we provide:
✅ Comprehensive thyroid testing
✅ Personalized hypothyroidism treatment
✅ Ongoing monitoring & medication adjustments

📞 Call us today to schedule your thyroid screening!

Final Thoughts on Managing Hypothyroidism

📌 Hypothyroidism is a common but manageable condition. With the right diagnosis, medication, and lifestyle changes, patients can live healthy, symptom-free lives.

🔹 Think you might have thyroid issues? Don’t ignore the symptoms!
📍 Visit Health Express Clinics in Lewisville, Texas, for expert thyroid care.📞 Call us now to book your appointment! 🚀