What Are the Causes of an Underactive Thyroid?
What Is Hypothyroidism? Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) is a condition in which the thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Symptoms include fatigue; dryness of skin, hair and nails; obesity; constipation; confusion and memory problems; menstrual irregularities; and inability to warm the body in cold temperatures. Causes and Risk Factors Underactive thyroid affects mainly women, especially those over 50. It is frequently an inherited disease, making family history of hypothyroidism a risk factor. The majority of hypothyroidism is the result of a problem with the thyroid itself. A small number of hypothyroid cases (approximately 5%) are caused by a problem in the pituitary gland or brain. Other causes include the intake of lithium, radiation treatment for cancers of the head and neck and removal of all or part of the thyroid. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis The most common cause of underactive thyroid in the United States is a condition called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Also known a
