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Hypothyroid & Infection

Hypothyroidism, also called underactive thyroid, is a medical condition where the thyroid gland does not synthesize and secrete enough thyroid hormones. Infections in the body, particularly infection of the thyroid gland, can cause hypothyroidism. Left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease. Treatment for hypothyroidism is medication.

  1. Thyroid

    • The thyroid is a gland located in the neck. It is responsible for manufacturing important hormones T3 and T4. These hormones regulate body temperature, heart rate and body weight. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid does not produce enough of these hormones.

    Hypothyroidism

    • Hypothyroidism is a medical condition where the thyroid gland does not create and release proper amounts of necessary thyroid hormones. There are several kinds of hypothyroidism, with Hashimoto's thyroiditis being the most serious.

    Symptoms

    • Hypothyroidism is often without symptoms, particularly in the early stages. However, individuals with hypothyroidism may feel fatigued, depressed, sluggish or weak. Other symptoms include increased sensitivity to cold, constipation, pale skin, dry skin, inflammation in the face, brittle hair, hoarseness, hypertension, weight gain, heavy periods, miscarriage and brittle nails. Treatment includes medication. According to healthsquare.com, hypothyroidism is eight times more common in women than in men, and typically develops between 30 and 50 years of age.

    Causes

    • The main causes of hypothyroidism are damage to or removal of all or part of the thyroid gland, excessive treatment for hyperthyroidism (the direct opposite of hypothyroidism, overactive thyroid gland), infection and immune system dysfunction.

    Treatment

    • Treatment includes regular medication and synthesized hormonal supplements. In rare cases, individuals must be hospitalized until their hormonal levels return to a normal balance. Once treatment begins, all signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism should disappear within three to 12 weeks.

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