What Are Possible Hypothyroidism Causes?

As we all know by now hypothyroidism is a condition that is defined by a thyroid that is unable to produce the proper amount of thyroid hormone for daily functioning. When the thyroid is not working correctly the entire balance of your body can be upset. Many of us wonder however, what are some possible hypothyroidism causes?

How did I get this condition in the first place? Will my children have the same condition? These are prevalent questions that are very common for most of us that suffer from hypothyroidism. There seems to be a general consensus as to some of the main causes that can cause hypothyroidism. These include taking certain medications, having radiation therapy, suffering from an autoimmune disease, or having treatment for a hyperthyroid.

If you suffer from an autoimmune disorder, it can develop into an inflammatory form of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Your immune system will produce extra antibodies that turn and attack the healthy tissues in your body when you suffer from an autoimmune disease.   This can include your thyroid gland. When your thyroid becomes overworked it develops into hypothyroidism.

Another one of the common hypothyroidism causes can be when you are going through treatment for hyperthyroidism. This is the opposite of hypothyroidism because your thyroid is overactive and producing too much thyroid hormone. Common treatment for this is often radioactive iodine or the use of anti-thyroid medications. These treatments are given to create normal thyroid function, however, in some cases they can actually slow down the thyroid to the point where it becomes hypothyroidism.

If you are taking medications you need to be sure you are you are own advocate. Educate yourself on how the medication works and all of its possible side effects. Some medications can create a negative interaction with how your thyroid works. Be sure to ask your doctor about the possible effects to your thyroid gland that may be caused by taking your medication.

When being treated for cancers that are affecting your head and neck area, radiation is one of the common treatment options. However, radiation treatments can affect your thyroid gland and may eventually lead to hypothyroidism.

 Everyone is different, and some of the hypothyroidism causes may not apply to you. If you are feeling many of the symptoms of hypothyroidism be sure to check with your doctor and be tested. It is very easy to get your number and know for sure whether or not you need to be treated for hypothyroidism.