Inflammation of the thyroid or a deficiency in iodine causes the condition called hypothyroidism. The thyroid hormones become under secreted or are not secreted at all with hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism symptoms include fatigue, slowed heart and respiratory rate, cold intolerance, and weight gain. Newborn infants with hypothyroidism (cretinism) are characterized by mental retardation and short stature.

The thyroid can also be over stimulated in a condition termed hyperthyroidism. This results in over secretion of the thyroid hormones. Symptoms associated with this disorder include an increased metabolic rate, profuse sweating, heart palpitations, weight loss, protruding eyes, and a feeling of excessive warmth. With both conditions the thyroid often enlarges resulting in goiter. However, goiter does not always indicate disease. Thyroid enlargement can result during pregnancy and puberty.

If you exhibit some of the above symptoms, you should consult your physician for further follow up. Many women due have serious concerns regarding their thyroid gland. If you have tried to lose weight with no success, maybe it is due to the thyroid.

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