A person who is diagnosed with hypothyroidism has an underactive thyroid. This article from the eMedTV archives takes a detailed look at this condition, explaining what causes it, how it is diagnosed, symptoms, and the usual course of treatment.
As this eMedTV page explains, there are many different causes of an underactive thyroid. This page examines them in detail and explains the differences between primary, secondary, and tertiary hypothyroidism, the medical term for an underactive thyroid.
If a person has an underactive thyroid, symptoms may not become apparent for years. This eMedTV page explains why this is the case, lists possible signs of hypothyroidism, and explains what can happen in rare cases if the condition is left untreated.
The drugs used for underactive thyroid treatment work by bringing the levels of TSH and T4 to normal. This eMedTV segment discusses how hypothyroidism is treated, including how long before it starts to work and how long a person needs such therapy.
For people with an underactive thyroid, diet does not really play a role. However, as this page of the eMedTV library explains, some foods (such as walnuts) should be eaten in moderation or avoided shortly before or after taking thyroid medications.
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