Do you feel exhausted all the time, find it hard to lose weight, or even to keep warm during the good weather we are presently experiencing? The vast majority of people with underactive thyroids often accept these symptoms as normal, living with levels of fatigue that would be completely unreasonable to most - without realising it.
Thyroid abnormalities are surprisingly common, especially in women. The thyroid gland (in the neck ) makes a hormone thyroxine, which affects a wide range of systems. The good news is that once identified, it is very easily treated.
Too little thyroid hormone can cause any of the following and more:
- exhaustion
- low mood
- slow heart rate
- weight gain
- constipation
- changes to hair and voice
- feeling cold
On the other hand too much thyroid hormone can often cause the opposite:
- weight loss
- sweating
- agitation
- tremor
- loose stool
- feeling hot
- weakness
An underactive thyroid gland is managed quite simply by replacing the thyroid hormone with a tablet form. An overactive thyroid gland is a little trickier but also manageable with tablets.
Both of these are treated and monitored under the supervision of a GP. Other tests, such as ultrasound of the thyroid, are sometimes necessary, depending on the circumstances.
Keep in mind though, that the majority of causes of low energy levels and weight gain are still related to poor diet and lack of fitness. Detailed full health screening is always a positive move.
Dr Ann Shortt works as both a GP in Brooklands Medical Centre, Castlebar, telephone 094 902 6411, and in emergency medicine in Galway.
For more information see www.fullhealth.ie
