Hypothyroidism By Ranwant Rathor

The Thyroid Gland The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck just below the voice box (larynx). It releases hormones that control metabolism.

The function of the Thyroid Gland The thyroid gland sets the rate at which you produce energy from your body's stores by the release of thyroid hormones. It is an endocrine gland, which means that it secretes hormones directly into the blood through ductless glands.

What is Hypothyroidism? Hypo = low Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone ( known as a deficiency of the thyroid hormone)

Causes of Hypothyroidism The most common cause of hypothyroidism is inflammation of the thyroid gland, which damages the gland's cells. Autoimmune or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, is the most common example of this. Another cause of hypothyroidism is auto- immune disease, which can make the thyroid less active.

Other causes of Hypothyroidism Other common causes of hypothyroidism include: Congenital (birth) defects Radiation treatments to the neck to treat different cancers, which may also damage the thyroid gland Radioactive iodine used to treat an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) Surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid gland, done to treat other thyroid problems Viral thyroiditis, which may cause hyperthyroidism and is often followed by temporary or permanent hypothyroidism

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism The symptoms include : Weight Gain Depression or Anxiety Face swelling and Puffy eyes Difficulty concentrating or remembering Breathlessness and swelling of feet Poor libido

Treatment and Recovery It's difficult to prevent thyroid illness. Hypothyroidism is treated with thyroid hormone medication. Treatment of hyperthyroidism may involve medication to reduce the production of thyroid hormone, radioactive iodine therapy or a thyroidectomy (removal of part of the thyroid gland).

The effect of Hypothyroidism on lives Professional footballer Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima at the peak of his footballing powers at the 2002 World Cup. He went on to amass 475 goals in his professional career and is known as the best striker of his generation. However…..after being diagnosed with hypothyroidism, Ronaldo found it difficult to maintain the necessary weight needed for the demands of professional football. It was this condition that forced him to retire from professional football in February 2011 at the age of 34.