Hypothyroidism and digestion
Hypothyroidism and digestion
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland in the human body is under- active. This results in reduced amounts of the thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism is a condition that is more prevalent in women than men, and there seems to be a hereditary factor to it. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an iodine deficiency. However, very often medication given for hyperthyroidism can lead to hypothyroidism due to over suppression of the thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism gives rise to a large range of symptoms. The primary side effect of reduced thyroid hormone is a lack of stimulation of the body cells. There is an overall slowing down of the body’s functions including all the systems of the body. One of the first signs of hypothyroidism is fatigue. There is a general feeling of tiredness. Along with this comes weight gain. The person may have a controlled diet and adequate exercise and yet be putting on weight. There is a thinness of the hair and nails. The heart rate slows down overall. The person may feel sleepy all the time. There is an increased sensitivity to cold. These early symptoms of hypothyroidism often go unnoticed because they are considered to be due to stress or over work. The later symptoms of hypothyroidism may include abnormal menstrual cycles, puffy and dry skin, change in the voice etc. Some uncommon symptoms of hypothyroidism include an increased sensitivity to heat, migraines, hair loss, yellowing of skin etc. Hypothyroidism affects the entire body’s functioning. This includes everything from the nervous system to the reproductive system. Like these other systems, Hypothyroidism and digestion also have a connection. Seeing as hypothyroidism slows down the functioning and metabolism of the entire body, it is a given that it does the same for digestion too. Hypothyroidism and digestion are interlinked in that reduced thyroid hormone results in a slowing down of the digestive system. Because of hypothyroidism the muscles of the digestive tract can also lose their elasticity and become sluggish. Because of the system slowing down, those with hypothyroidism often complain of constipation. This is because in slow digestion the food remains in the intestinal tract for a longer period of time. This allows the system to absorb more water from the food. The slower the digestion, more water is absorbed. This results in the stool to be hard and compacted, leading to constipation. Thus hypothyroidism and digestion are correlated through constipation which can sometimes become more severe and result in haemorrhoids. Hypothyroidism is a manageable condition. Thus those who suspect that their thyroid gland might not be functioning to the optimum should consult a physician and get the appropriate medication for it.
