What are the side effects of low thyroid levels?

As an expert in the field of endocrinology, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the side effects associated with low thyroid levels, a condition medically known as hypothyroidism. The thyroid gland, located in the neck, is a crucial part of the endocrine system. It produces hormones that regulate the body's metabolism, which is the process by which the body converts food into energy and maintains all its vital functions. When the thyroid gland does not produce enough of these hormones, it can lead to a variety of symptoms and side effects. Here are some of the most common ones: 1. Fatigue: One of the most prevalent symptoms of hypothyroidism is a feeling of persistent tiredness and lack of energy. This is because the metabolic rate slows down, leading to less energy being produced. 2. Weakness: Along with fatigue, individuals with hypothyroidism may experience muscle weakness. This is due to the reduced metabolic activity affecting muscle function. 3. **Weight Gain or Increased Difficulty Losing Weight**: A slowed metabolism can also result in weight gain or make it harder to lose weight. The body burns fewer calories at a slower metabolic rate. 4. Coarse, Dry Hair: Thyroid hormones are necessary for the growth and health of hair. When these levels are low, hair may become dry, coarse, and more prone to breakage. 5. Dry, Rough, Pale Skin: The skin can become dry and rough due to the reduced metabolic rate affecting the skin's ability to retain moisture. 6. Hair Loss: Low thyroid levels can lead to a decrease in hair density and an increase in hair loss. 7. Cold Intolerance: People with hypothyroidism often have a reduced ability to generate heat, making them more sensitive to cold temperatures. 8. Muscle Cramps and Frequent Muscle Aches: The metabolic slowdown can affect muscle function, leading to cramps and aches. 9. Depression: The reduced metabolic activity can also affect neurotransmitter levels, potentially leading to mood disorders such as depression. 10. Menstrual Changes: Women with hypothyroidism may experience heavier, irregular, or more painful periods. 11. Constipation: A slower metabolism can affect the digestive system, leading to less frequent bowel movements and constipation. 12. Thickening of the Tongue: In some cases, the tongue may become enlarged, which can affect speech and swallowing. 13. Puffy Face: Fluid retention due to the slowed metabolism can cause the face to appear puffy. 14. Slow Heart Rate: A reduced metabolic rate can also lead to a slower than normal heart rate. 15. High Cholesterol: Hypothyroidism can affect the liver's ability to remove low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol from the blood, leading to elevated cholesterol levels. 16. Fertility Issues: Low thyroid levels can interfere with ovulation and conception, leading to fertility problems. 17. Neurological Symptoms: Cognitive function can be affected, with individuals experiencing memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and even peripheral neuropathy. It's important to note that these symptoms can vary widely from person to person, and not everyone with hypothyroidism will experience all of these side effects. Treatment typically involves hormone replacement therapy with synthetic thyroid hormone to restore normal hormone levels and alleviate symptoms.

Symptoms of HypothyroidismFatigue.Weakness.Weight gain or increased difficulty losing weight.Coarse, dry hair.Dry, rough pale skin.Hair loss.Cold intolerance (you can't tolerate cold temperatures like those around you)Muscle cramps and frequent muscle aches.More items...