Hypothyroidism is a thyroid problem caused by an underactive thyroid gland that produces insufficient amounts of thyroid hormones. This common condition affects millions of people.

Because the symptoms may be varied and difficult to define, often mimicking other conditions, many people with an underactive thyroid gland may be completely unaware of the problem.

To get a basic understanding of hypothyroidism, you need to familiarize yourself with the thyroid. The thyroid is a small gland found in the middle of the lower neck (below the larynx or Adam’s apple).

This gland manufactures thyroid hormones which enable the body to carry out a variety of very important functions. The thyroid works in conjunction with pituitary gland which produces thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).

TSH in turn stimulates the thyroid gland to produce the thyroid hormones, T3 and T4. These thyroid hormones play a vital role in the body, influencing metabolism and all the organs in the body. They determine how fast or how slow the organs should work and how the body generates and uses energy.

When the thyroid is under-active and doesn’t produce enough of these hormones, hypothyroidism can develop. Metabolic rate and energy levels decrease and the body uses energy slower than it should.

Who Suffers from Hypothyroidism?

Underactive thyroid is a very common medical condition and statistics suggest that 1 in 50 women and 1 in 1000 men will develop symptoms of hypothyroidism. It is more common in older women and can also occur more frequently during pregnancy.

Conventional treatment usually involves the administration of synthetic or animal derived thyroid hormone replacement drugs.
Diagnosing Hypothyroidism

A blood test is needed to confirm the diagnosis of an underactive thyroid gland, but does not necessarily tell you the cause. The patient’s clinical history and results of antibody screening tests and thyroid scans can help to determine the underlying cause.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

The symptoms of hypothyroidism are not always easy to distinguish from other conditions, which makes a proper diagnosis very important. Some of the symptoms of underactive thyroid gland include:

* Thrush
* Allergies, e.g. Itching Eyes, Rashes, Hives
* Heart Palpitations
* Sore Breasts
* Stomach Bloating/Digestion Problems
* Nausea
* Itching Skin
* Low Sex Drive
* Skin Problems, e.g. Wrinkles & Age Spots
* Aching Joints & Muscle Soreness, e.g. Aching Legs & Backaches
* Motion Sickness
* Dry, Tangly Hair Or Hair Loss
* Fatigue & Exhaustion
* Depression
* Constipation
* Weight Gain Or Difficulty Losing Weight
* Brittle, Split Nails
* Swelling & Puffiness in the Eyes, Face, Arms and Legs
* Poor Concentration
* Menstrual Problems, e.g. Heavy and/or Infrequent Flow

Hypothyroidism Support

Thyroid Assist
Promotes thyroid health & functioning, plus healthy energy levels

Candidate
Supports normal levels of systemic Candida and balanced probiotic flora

EcoSlim
Helps maintain a healthy weight & balanced metabolism, plus assists slimming programs

DigestAssist
Promotes healthy digestion and comfort after meals

Dong Quai
Promotes hormonal balance and helps keep estrogen and progesterone levels within the normal range

Fatigue Fighter
Promotes healthy energy levels, stamina and vitality