Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of certain crucial hormones. Hypothyroidism may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Over time, if it is left untreated, hypothyroidism can cause a number of health problems, such as obesity, joint pain, infertility, and heart disease. To avoid hypothyroidism in Selma, TX, reach out to Dr. Anthony Wright and Dr. Gloria Wright of Total Health Primary Care.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Hypothyroidism?
The effects of hypothyroidism on the body often vary among different people and may be difficult to identify. Symptoms can include weight gain and fatigue, for example. These both become more common as you age, regardless of your thyroid's health. In general, the most common signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, depression, constipation, feeling cold, decreased sweating, slowed heart rate, elevated blood cholesterol, dry skin, thinning hair, impaired memory, muscle weakness, muscle stiffness, aches, tenderness, pain, and stiffness in your joints.
What Causes Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism has several causes, including:
- Hashimoto's disease
- Thyroiditis or inflammation of the thyroid
- Congenital hypothyroidism
- Surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid
- Some medications
Treatment of Hypothyroidism in Selma, TX
The first step of treatment is to visit your doctor for a diagnosis. The most common traditional hypothyroidism treatment is synthetic T4 hormone, taken orally. The team monitors your reaction and may adjust your medication level after about six weeks of taking it for optimal hormone balancing.
Natural hormone prescriptions help you avoid synthetic hormones and still maximize your thyroid function. Your doctors test every treatment to ensure that it is safe and effective for you.
To learn more about hypothyroidism in Selma, TX, contact Dr. Anthony Wright and Dr. Gloria Wright of Total Health Primary Care. Schedule your appointment by calling (210) 654-9300 today.