The underactive thyroid causes an imbalance of chemical reactions in the body. Since the thyroid produces the hormones the body needs to carry out basic functions, a drop in hormone levels due to hypothyroidism can lead to low energy levels.
In addition to low energy levels, other symptoms of hypothyroidism include the following:
• Extreme fatigue
• Depression
• Forgetfulness
• Feel cold
• Dry skin
• Weight gain
• Constipation
• Joint or muscle pain
• Excessive menstrual bleeding
• Muscle weakness
Because the symptoms are so variable and nonspecific, the only way to know for sure whether you have hypothyroidism is with a simple blood test. Hypothyroidism is treated with a thyroid hormone medication (synthetic thyroxine), which replaces the amount of hormone that your own thyroid can no longer make. We are commonly asked about prescribing Armour Thyroid, which is a medication used to treat hypothyroidism and is derived from pigs’ thyroid glands. Because of the drawbacks of Armour Thyroid (not FDA-approved, fluctuations in T3 and T4, variability in production, etc.), our doctors do not prescribe Armour Thyroid. You can read more about Armour Thyroid in our Frequently Asked Questions.
There are many possible causes for hypothyroidism. Some of these causes include treatment for hyperthyroidism, radiation, thyroid removal, autoimmune disease (such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis), and other medications such as lithium. In some cases, hypothyroidism can be caused by pregnancy, congenital disease, iodine deficiency, or a pituitary disorder.
Learn more about Hypothyroidism
