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About Thyroid Health
What Is Underactive Thyroid?
Unlike hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism stems from an underproduction of thyroid hormones. Since your body's energy production requires certain amounts of thyroid hormones, a drop in hormone production leads to lower energy levels, causing you to feel weak and tired.
Approximately 25 million people suffer with hypothyroidism, and about half are undiagnosed. Older adults—particularly women—are more likely to develop hypothyroidism than younger adults. Hypothyroidism also tends to run in families.
If hypothyroidism is not treated, it can raise your cholesterol levels and make you more likely to have a heart attack or stroke. During pregnancy, untreated hypothyroidism can harm your baby. Luckily, hypothyroidism is easy to treat.
Approximately 25 million people suffer with hypothyroidism, and about half are undiagnosed. Older adults—particularly women—are more likely to develop hypothyroidism than younger adults. Hypothyroidism also tends to run in families.
If hypothyroidism is not treated, it can raise your cholesterol levels and make you more likely to have a heart attack or stroke. During pregnancy, untreated hypothyroidism can harm your baby. Luckily, hypothyroidism is easy to treat.
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As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.
SOURCES: WebMD's Medical References: "Understanding Thyroid Problems: The Basics." "Thyroid and Menopause: Confusing the Symptoms." "Thyroid Storm." WebMD's Medical Information from Healthwise: "Hypothyroidism." "Hypothyroidism Cause." "Thyroid hormone medications for hypothyroidism." "Hyperthyroidism."
