Low thyroid function, also known as hypothyroidism, may cause widespread symptoms throughout your body. Located beneath your Adam’s apple, your thyroid gland produces hormones which increase the metabolism of every active cell in your body. According to MD Consult, low thyroid function may affect up to 4.3% of the US population. Most people with hypothyroidism exhibit some, but not all hypothyroid symptoms.
Slow Metabolism
Since thyroid hormones increase cellular energy, one of the most common consequences of hypothyroidism includes fatigue. Many hypothyroid patients report gaining weight without changing their exercise or dietary routines. Slow metabolism leads to decreased body temperature and cold intolerance, as well as depression, slow thinking and memory impairment. Hypothyroidism in a child may result in mental retardation and growth deficits.
Connective Tissue
Weak, brittle nails and dry skin and hair prove common symptoms with low thyroid function. Before lab tests were available, doctors diagnosed hypothyroidism with findings such as Queen Anne’s sign, which is thinning of the outer portion of the eyebrows. Low thyroid function should always be considered if you experience significant hair loss. Myxedema; a swelling of the skin and underlying tissue, proves another telltale sign of hypothyroidism. Enlargement of the thyroid gland, known as goiter, may also occur.
Digestion
Constipation is common in hypothyroidism due to slow, weak contractions of the intestinal muscles that control the speed of digestion. Tissue swelling may lead to an enlarged, puffy tongue. Decreased stomach acid production impairs the ability to digest and absorb important nutrients.
Joints and Muscles
Muscle cramps and weakness, carpal tunnel syndrome, numbness of the hands and joint pain are all reported in hypothyroidism. Physicians also observe slower tendon reflexes during physical exams in patients with hypothyroidism.
Heart
Untreated low thyroid function may cause high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. Advanced cases of hypothyroidism may lead to swelling of the heart tissue and weakness of the heart muscle. According to the Mayo Clinic, a type of coma known as myxedema coma may result from severe, untreated cases of hypothyroidism.
About this Author
Amy Tyler is passionate about writing articles that empower people to optimize their own wellness. As a practicing naturopathic doctor in Austin, Texas, she blends modern medicine with the art and tradition of natural therapies. She holds a Bachelors of Science in chemical engineering from The University of Texas at Austin, and a doctorate degree in naturopathic medicine from Bastyr University.
