Hypothyroidism: Fatigue & weight gain can be signs

An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) is a common metabolic disorder that can occur at any age and manifest itself in a variety of symptoms. Typical symptoms include fatigue, weight gain and dry skin.

An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) is a common metabolic disorder that can occur at any age and manifest itself in a variety of symptoms. Typical symptoms include fatigue, weight gain and dry skin. "Patients with an underactive thyroid usually feel listless and have difficulty concentrating, they are very sensitive to cold and get cold quickly. Their skin looks dry, their hair is dull and their fingernails are brittle. People who suffer from an underactive thyroid also tend to have thyroid suffer from weight gain. Even with conscious Nutrition easily because their metabolism is slowed down,” explains Dr. Reinhold Lunow, internist and medical director of the practice clinic Bornheim, near Cologne and Bonn.

Thyroid check clarifies whether the hormones are still in balance

The thyroid is one of our most important metabolic organs. It produces the hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which are involved in numerous metabolic processes. "When the thyroid is underactive, too little of these two hormones is produced. The body therefore works on a reduced level, many metabolic functions are disturbed or greatly slowed down, and general physical and mental performance decreases. And nutrients from food are also less easily absorbed, and the body increasingly shows signs of deficiency," explains the medical director of the practice clinic near Cologne and Bonn. People who suspect they have an underactive thyroid should have this checked by a specialist. "The Bornheim practice clinic offers a special thyroid check with which the Diagnosis secured and thus an individual therapy tailored to the respective patient can be initiated," recommends Dr. Lunow.

Hypothyroidism is easily treatable

An underactive thyroid can usually be treated well by administering the thyroid hormone L-thyroxine. "Initially, the patient only receives a small dose so that the hormone level can slowly regulate itself. Then the individual optimal dose is gradually set - depending on how the patient responds to the hormone and how the laboratory values ​​normalize. In addition, if deficiency symptoms are proven, advice is also given on a change in diet and possible nutritional supplements. General medical preparations and relaxation techniques such as yoga often help to restore hormonal balance. We at the Bornheim practice clinic are happy to provide you with information on this," emphasizes Dr. Lunow.

Here you will find further information on the subject, including the possible causes of hypothyroidism (http://www.lunow.de/diagnose/schilddruese/schilddruesenunterfunktion.html) and the extent of the thyroid check (http://www.lunow.de/diagnose/schilddruese/schilddruesen-check-up.html).

Provided by: Monks doctors online