With hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland produces too little hormone to stimulate the metabolism or the body can not use hormones. The lack of thyroid hormones slows metabolism and therefore all activities in the body, providing a combination of symptoms associated with the slow process of the body.

Hypothyroidism is common, but the frequency of both conditions can not be determined. Some estimate that 0.5% of the total U.S. population have the disease until a certain level. The frequency is much higher among people over 50 years among young people.

Hypothyroidism Symptoms and Complications

The most common initial symptoms are: Mental and physical fatigue, weakness, weight loss or excess weight, and depression.

One or more of these symptoms are also used to appear early: Constipation, sensitivity to cold hands and cold feet, thick tongue, decreased perspiration, dry hair, thin brittle hair, thin brittle nails, muscle and joint pain, pale or yellowish skin.
» Read more: Hypothyroidism – a Common Health Problem