Hypothyroidism
Answers to common questions about hypothyroidism.
Questions on this page
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism means the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone.
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?
Common symptoms include:
- Tiredness
- Weight gain
- Feeling cold
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Hair loss
- Muscle aches
- Slow heartbeat
- Poor concentration
- Menstrual problems
Some people have very few symptoms.
What is the most common cause of hypothyroidism?
One of the common causes is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the thyroid.
What is Hashimoto's thyroiditis?
Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune thyroid disease that can gradually reduce thyroid hormone production.
Can hypothyroidism cause weight gain?
Yes, but usually the amount of weight gain due to hypothyroidism is modest.
Severe obesity is rarely caused by thyroid disease alone.
Can hypothyroidism cause hair loss?
Yes.
Hair thinning or increased hair fall can occur with hypothyroidism and may improve after thyroid function is corrected.
Can hypothyroidism cause infertility?
Untreated hypothyroidism can affect menstrual cycles and fertility.
Appropriate treatment can improve thyroid function and reproductive health.