The Thyroid is a gland located at the base of the neck and shaped like a butterfly. Although the Thyroid Gland is very small, it has a significant effect on a person’s health. The body’s metabolism is completely regulated by Thyroid Hormones. As long as the Thyroid releases the proper amounts of these Thyroid Hormones, the body’s metabolism functions normally. Hypothyroidism is a Thyroid condition in which the Thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones. There are many disorders that result from Hypothyroidism. The disorders resulting from Hypothyroidism may directly or indirectly involve the Thyroid Gland. The thyroid hormones affect growth, development, and many other cellular processes. For this reason Hypothyroidism has widespread consequences for the body. Consider the following types of Thyroid Hormones:

• Thyroxine (T4)
• Triiodothyronine (T3)

The Pituitary Gland controls the rate of Thyroid Hormone production. Insufficient amounts of Thyroid Hormone circulating through the body causes the Pituitary Gland to release more Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, stimulates more Thyroid Hormone production. In contrast, excessive amount of Thyroid Hormone circulating through the body causes Thyroid Stimulating Hormone levels fall as the Pituitary Gland attempts to decrease the production of Thyroid Hormone. Consider the following list of some of the common causes of Hypothyroidism:

• Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
• Lymphocytic Thyroiditis
• Thyroid Destruction (caused by radioactive iodine or surgery)
• Pituitary Disease or Hypothalamic Disease
• Certain Medications
• Severe Iodine Deficiency

The symptoms of Hypothyroidism often times go undetected. The Hypothyroidism symptoms generally become more obvious as the condition worsens. The most notable symptoms are related to a slowing metabolism. Common Hypothyroidism symptoms include the following:

• Fatigue
• Depression
• Decreased concentration
• Excessive sleepiness
• Modest weight gain
• Increased cholesterol levels
• Cold intolerance
• Constipation
• Dry, coarse hair
• Dry skin
• Aches and pains
• Leg swelling
• Muscle cramps

As the Hypothyroidism becomes more severe so do the symptoms associated with the condition. In severe cases of Hypothyroidism a patient may experience puffiness around the eyes, a slowing of the heart rate, a drop in body temperature, and in some cases heart failure or a life-threatening coma called Myxedema Coma. Consult with a doctor for diagnosis and treatment options.