Do You Have Hypothyroidism?

The thyroid is a gland you should take notice of, especially if you over 35 or have difficulty losing weight.  Hypothyroidism occurs when this gland doesn't produce enough of certain hormones.  As we age, hormones begin to make their voice known loud and clear.

So, how do we know?  Hypothyroidism develops over a period of time and varies from individual to individual.  However, start to monitor the below symptoms if you have a concern:

• Fatigue
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Constipation
• Dry skin
• Unexplained weight gain
• Puffy face
• Hoarseness
• Muscle weakness
• Elevated blood cholesterol level
• Muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness
• Pain, stiffness or swelling in your joints
• Heavier than normal or irregular menstrual periods
• Thinning hair
• Slowed heart rate
• Depression
• Impaired memory

There are also individuals at increased risk of developing hypothyroidism:

• Are a woman older than age 60
• Have an autoimmune disease
• Have a close relative, such as a parent or grandparent, with an autoimmune disease
• Have been treated with radioactive iodine or anti-thyroid medications
• Received radiation to your neck or upper chest
• Have had thyroid surgery (partial thyroidectomy)
• Have been pregnant or delivered a baby within the past six months

So, how do you find out?  You can visit your local primary care physician or OB and have them do a blood draw.  An at home way (per Dr. Oz) is to take your temperature first thing in the morning before getting out of bed.  If the average over 7 days is below 98 degrees, you may have an issue.  

After having 3 kids , family history of thyroid disease, and getting to the point where I see the 40 number knocking on my door, I decided to do the home method for checking my temperature.  I'll keep you posted on my results!

To Your Health!

Melanie Rubery MS RD LD CLT

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