What Happens If You Have Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a common condition where

the thyroid doesn't create and release enough thyroid hormone into your bloodstream

. This makes your metabolism slow down. Also called underactive thyroid, hypothyroidism can make you feel tired, gain weight and be unable to tolerate cold temperatures.

How bad can hypothyroidism get?

If left untreated, though, hypothyroidism can lead to many complications. These include

heart problems, nerve injury, infertility and in severe cases, death

.

What will happen if hypothyroidism is not treated?

Hypothyroidism may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Over time, untreated hypothyroidism can cause a number of health problems, such as obesity,

joint pain, infertility and heart disease

.

Can you live a normal life with hypothyroidism?

There was no association between quality of life

and thyroid hormone blood levels. Patients with untreated hypothyroidism had worse quality of life, predominantly fatigue, compared to healthy patients without hypothyroidism. Quality of life improved after treatment but remained not as good as the control population.

Should I worry if I have hypothyroidism?

The symptoms of hypothyroidism can take a mental toll if left untreated. Mild hypothyroidism can cause mild forms of depression. But without treatment, the symptoms of hypothyroidism will

increase

. This can directly affect your mental state, and your depression may intensify as a result.

How does thyroid affect sleep?

When

your thyroid produces too little or too much thyroid hormone

, it throws off your body's metabolism, which can affect your sleep. Too much hormone production causes an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism. This can lead to anxiety, rapid heart rate and insomnia.

Is banana good for thyroid patients?

Vegetables: all vegetables — cruciferous vegetables are fine to eat in moderate amounts, especially when cooked. Fruits: all other fruits, including berries, bananas, oranges, tomatoes, etc.

Does hypothyroidism get worse over time?

Symptoms of hypothyroidism usually appear slowly over several months or years. However, some people develop symptoms of hypothyroidism quickly over a few months. In general, the lower your thyroid hormone levels become and the longer they stay low, the

more severe

your symptoms will be.

What organs are affected by hypothyroidism?

• Endocrine system. When you have hypothyroidism, your body makes too little of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4. …
• Circulatory and cardiovascular systems. …
• Nervous system. …
• Respiratory system. …
• Digestive system. …
• Reproductive system. …
• Other systems.

Is hypothyroidism a disability?

There are a variety of thyroid gland disorders than can negatively impact your life, two of which are hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. If you have been diagnosed with a thyroid gland disorder, you may qualify for social security disability benefits if your condition is severe enough.

How does a person with hypothyroidism feel?

Hypothyroidism tends to make people feel

tired, sluggish, and depressed

. Hyperthyroidism can cause anxiety, problems sleeping, restlessness, and irritability.

Is hypothyroidism hard to live with?

So, even subtle fluctuations in your thyroid can contribute to some big changes in your body. And that's why living with a thyroid condition like hypothyroidism

can be challenging on a daily

— and even hourly — basis.

Can I lose weight if I have hypothyroidism?

Weight loss with hypothyroidism is possible

; however, losing weight with a thyroid disease requires a strict diet plan, exercise and monitoring your hormones. Yes, weight loss is possible even with a thyroid disease, but it does take the right approach.

Can hypothyroidism go away on its own?

Occasionally, the condition may resolve without treatment. Follow-up appointments are important to monitor hypothyroidism over time, however. If hypothyroidism doesn't go away on

its own within several months

, then treatment is necessary. If left untreated, this condition eventually may lead to serious health problems.

How do I check my thyroid at home?

1. Hold a handheld mirror in your hand, focusing on the lower front area of your neck, above the collarbones, and below the voice box (larynx). …
2. While focusing on this area in the mirror, tilt your head back.
3. Take a drink of water while tilting your head back and swallow.

At what age do thyroid problems start?

The disease is hereditary and may develop at any age in men or women, but it's much more common in

women ages 20 to 30

, according to the Department of Health and Human Services .