Hypothyroidism 101: All You Need to Know
What is hypothyroidism ? What are the signs, symptoms, and causes of hypothyroidism? Learn more about the symptoms, causes, and concerns that come with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism 101 Hypothyroidism (a low functioning thyroid) is the most common cause of thyroid dysfunction, characterized as an underactive thyroid , where the thyroid gland doesn’t make enough thyroid hormones. Lack of thyroid hormones leads to universal decline in the cellular function of all body systems and processes. What is the Thyroid? The thyroid is a vital, butterfly-shaped hormone gland, located in your throat, that acts as your metabolic mothership. The thyroid plays a major role in the metabolism, growth and development of the human body and it helps to regulate many body functions by constantly releasing a steady amount of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream (also known as T3 and T4 thyroid hormones). In fact, every cell in your body has receptors for thyroid hormones. You