Thyroid disorders, especially hypothyroidism, have become a rising concern worldwide that is affecting older adults as well as younger individuals. Lifestyle changes, stress, and poor dietary habits have significantly contributed to this trend, especially subclinical hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism, caused by an underactive thyroid gland, often develops subtly, making it crucial to recognize the signs early to prevent complications.
The thyroid is a small gland located in front of the windpipe. The main function of the thyroid gland is to aid the body in the regulation and use of energy. When the thyroid hormone does not produce enough hormones, the body's functions tend to slow down. Hypothyroidism is a condition wherein the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroxine, i.e., the thyroid hormone.
Among the common symptoms of hypothyroidism are thinning hair, unexplained weight gain, and a hoarse voice—symptoms that may easily be dismissed or attributed to other issues. However, these could be signals of an underlying thyroid imbalance that needs attention. In the initial stages, hypothyroidism does not usually reflect many symptoms although, gradually there are a range of symptoms that are associated with hypothyroidism:
• Chronic fatigue and slower heartbeats: The feeling of tiredness seems to persist along with lack of energy even after adequate rest. A resting heart rate which is noticeably slower than usual
• Weakness and Muscle pain: There is pain in the muscles and cramps along with a feeling of overall weakness in the body.
• Hair loss: One may witness gradual hair loss, hair being dry and brittle. Thinning of eyebrow hair especially around the outer edges might also happen.
• Hearing loss and foggy memory: The ability to sharply distinguish high-pitched sounds is also affected in the later stages. Forgetfulness, struggle in memorising, focusing are also some of the symptoms.
• Hoarseness and change in voice: The voice becomes raspy and hoarse with worsening symptoms in the later stage of hypothyroidism.
Other symptoms may include – elevated blood cholesterol levels, dry skin, muscle and joint pains, reduced tolerance to cold, disturbances in menstrual cycle etc.
Who is at Risk of Hypothyroidism? - Age and Gender: Women are more prone than men to develop thyroid, especially after 60 years of age. There is a sharp rise in the risk of developing hypothyroidism or other forms of thyroid in women after menopause. However now a days younger population are having hypothyroidism.
- Iodine Deficiency: Iodine is an essential mineral for thyroid function. People with autoimmune thyroid disease can be sensitive towards the effects of iodine which can further cause the thyroid to worsen. Of late, there is trend among lot of people to stop iodised salt and switching to pink salt or rock salt. Stopping intake of iodized salt can lead to goitre and may also affect a baby born out of iodine deficient mother.
- Goitre: It is a condition when the thyroid becomes enlarged due an autoimmune disorder which attacks the thyroid (Hashimoto’s disease).
- Other factors: People who have undergone radiation therapy, thyroiditis (inflammation of thyroid), or congenital hypothyroidism (hypothyroidism present at birth) and others.
Who should get thyroid hormone checked:1. People with goitre
2. Women planning a pregnancy
3. History of infertility
4. Women with irregular menses
5. People having typical symptoms of hypothyroidism
6. Children with poor growth and poor concentration ability and falling grades in school
Hypothyroidism is a silent disruptor that can affect your overall health and quality of life if left untreated. By paying attention to early signs like thinning hair, weight gain, and a hoarse voice, you can take proactive steps toward diagnosis and treatment. The most common treatment is daily hormone replacement therapy with levothyroxine, which restores hormone levels to normal. Apart from this, Periodic thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, T4) help track progress and adjust treatments as needed. With proper medical intervention, lifestyle adjustments, and regular monitoring, managing hypothyroidism and living a full, healthy life is entirely achievable. If you suspect you have hypothyroidism, consult your endocrinologist for guidance and treatment options.
(Dr. Vineet Kumar Surana, Consultant - Diabetes and Endocrinology, Manipal Hospital Dwarka, New Delhi)Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with
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