We often get told that an underactive thyroid, called hypothyroidism, can cause you to gain extra weight. And in the same vein, an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can make you lose weight. But we don’t always understand why this is the case and what the mechanics are behind this science. We will take a closer look at the relationship between the thyroid and the mitochondria, and how they can affect your weight.
What does the thyroid do?
Your thyroid plays a big role in how your body uses energy and how much weight you gain or lose. When the thyroid is not making enough hormones, (T4 and T3), it slows down your metabolism, which means you burn fewer calories. This can lead to weight gain. But, when the thyroid is making too many hormones, it speeds up your metabolism, which means you burn more calories. This can lead to weight loss.
What are the symptoms of Hypothyroidism?
When T3 and T4 levels are too low, it can cause several symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Cold intolerance
- Dry skin and hair
- Constipation
- Depression
- Memory problems
- Muscle weakness
- Low heart rate
- In more severe cases, hypothyroidism can lead to an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
- High cholesterol levels, and problems with fertility and pregnancy
What causes Hypothyroidism?
There are several possible causes of Hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid gland. Some of the most common causes include:
Autoimmune disorders
The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto thyroiditis, in which the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland.
Surgery
Surgery to remove the thyroid gland, such as a thyroidectomy, can cause hypothyroidism.
Radiation treatment
Radiation treatment for cancer or other conditions can damage the thyroid gland and lead to hypothyroidism.
Medications
Certain medications, such as lithium and interferon, can interfere with thyroid hormone production and cause hypothyroidism.
Congenital Hypothyroidism
Some people are born with an underactive thyroid gland, a condition known as congenital hypothyroidism.
Pituitary gland problems
The pituitary gland, located in the brain, produces a hormone called thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) that helps to regulate the thyroid gland. If the pituitary gland is not producing enough TSH, it can lead to hypothyroidism.
Other rare causes
There are a number of other rare causes of hypothyroidism, including viral infections, congenital abnormalities, and certain genetic conditions.
What could happen if Hypothyroidism goes untreated?
Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid gland, can affect the heart in a number of ways. The thyroid gland produces hormones that help regulate the body’s metabolism. Studies have shown that when these hormones are too low, it can lead to changes in heart function.
Some of the ways in which hypothyroidism can affect the heart include:
Decreased heart rate: Thyroid hormones help to regulate the heart rate, and when levels are too low, the heart may beat slower than normal.
Decreased cardiac output: Cardiac output is the amount of blood the heart pumps per minute, and low thyroid hormone levels can lead to a decrease in this measure.
Increased blood cholesterol levels: Hypothyroidism can cause an increase in LDL cholesterol, or “bad” cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
Heart failure: In severe cases of hypothyroidism, the heart may become enlarged and weakened, leading to heart failure.
What are my treatment options?
It is important to note that while hypothyroidism can affect the heart, proper treatment with hormone replacement therapy can help to normalize thyroid hormone levels and improve heart function.
Hypothyroidism is typically treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which involves taking daily medication to replace the missing thyroid hormone. In some cases, treatment may also involve dietary changes and supplements, such as selenium. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the most effective treatment plan for your individual needs.
Should you consult your Primary Care Doctor about your thyroid?
If you suspect that your thyroid is not up to scratch, make an appointment with Dr. Basedow. He will examine you and do the necessary tests to see the health of your thyroid. Should treatment be necessary, he will follow the steps required to get your thyroid functioning well again.
Dr. Basedow is the Medical Director at Azalea Health and Skin Treatment Center located at 1000 Ashland Drive, Suite 303, Ashland, KY 41101. Dr. Basedow and his staff serve patients in and around Greenup, Worthington, Hamilton, Russell, Raceland, Wurtland, Bellefonte, Ironville, Flatwoods, Ironton, Coal Grove, Westwood, Perry, Catlettsburg, South Point, Ceredo, Fayette, Cannonsburg, Union, Huntington, Westmoreland, Proctorville, East Pea Ridge, and Barboursville.