Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is caused by an underproduction of thyroid hormone. Hashimoto’s disease is believed to be the most common cause of hypothyroidism. It is a condition where the body produces antibodies against its own thyroid tissue and this causes the swelling of the thyroid gland to form goitre.

Symptoms: chronic fatigue, loss of appetite, inability to tolerate cold, low body temperature, show heart rate, easy weight gain, high cholesterol, heavy and painful menstrual periods, muscle cramps and weakness, dry and scaly skin, yellow-orange colouration of the skin, hair loss, hoarseness, constipation, depression, difficulty concentrating, goitre, swollen eyes.

Who to consult: Dietician, endocrinologist, GP, naturopath.