Did you know that having an underactive thyroid is something that can strike at any time in your life. The condition is also known as hypothyroidism and is a very common medical condition. Statistics suggest that 1 in 50 women and 1 in 1000 men will develop symptoms of thyroid conditions. Estimates are that there are around 24 million Americans with the condition. Effecting more women than men with as many as 17 percent of women and 9 percent of men getting affected. Underactive thyroid is a common disorder treated with daily thyroid hormone tablets. Underactive thyroid is diagnosed by blood test, and can be treated by prescribing thyroid hormone.

Underactive Thyroid Symptoms

Thyroid function symptoms are varied and usually start to appear over a period of time. These symptoms may include general low levels of energy, breathlessness and feeling overheated a lot of the time. Other symptoms of an underactive thyroid may include heart palpitations, hair loss, increased bowel movements and in general a metabolism that is reduced to a crawl.

The thyroid gland produces an important hormone for the body and if you think you may be suffering from an underactive thyroid then you will need to see your doctor and undergo blood tests. If you are diagnosed with an underactive thyroid and treated you will find that you have a new lease on life. Because the symptoms are so common for many people, they seem to be a part of everyday life. An underactive thyroid needs to be recognized as a health problem and treated as soon as possible.