Hypothyroidism

The result of the body not producing enough thyroid hormones.  Symptoms include weakness, fatigue, cold intolerance, constipation, unintentional weight gain, depression, joint or muscle pain, thin or brittle hair or fingernails, and poor growth in children.  The most common cause is the autoimmune disorder Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, in which antibodies are produced that inhibit the production of thyroid hormones.  People with Japanese ancestry are at greatest risk.  Treatment is by medication.