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Dr. Theo Friedman
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The Diagnosis and Treatment of Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism Diagnosis

Hypothyroidism is a relatively common disorder. It affects more women then men, but I happen to be one of the men who does have it. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, gradual weight gain, constipation, muscle aches, joint pain, feeling cold, menstrual irregularities, weakness, hair loss, dry, cold skin and slow reaction time. Many patients will have a goiter (enlarged thyroid). Although it has received much discussion, I believe low body temperature is not a reliable sign of hypothyroidism.

The incidence of hypothyroidism increases with increasing age. In other words, the older we get, the more likely a thyroid deficiency will show up. The most common cause of primary hypothyroidism (hypothyroidism originating in the thyroid gland itself), is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Hashimoto's is an autoimmune condition. The body's own antibodies attack the thyroid gland and destroy it, leading to hypothyroidism. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may be a manifestation of multiple autoimmune syndromes and may occur in families. Hypothyroidism can also be due to a pituitary problem (central hypothyroidism).

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