Primary Hypothyroidism, or underactivity of the thyroid gland, may cause a variety of symptoms and may affect all body functions. The body’s normal rate of functioning slows, causing mental and physical sluggishness. The symptoms may vary from mild to severe, with the most severe form called myxedema, which is a medical emergency. The secretion of T3 and T4 is controlled by the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus. Thyroid disorders may result not only from defects in the thyroid gland itself, but also from abnormalities of the pituitary or hypothalamus.
The most common cause of Hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, a disease of the thyroid gland where the body’s Immune System attacks the gland. Failure of the pituitary gland to secrete a hormone to stimulate the thyroid gland (secondary Hypothyroidism) is a less common cause of Hypothyroidism. Other causes include congenital defects, surgical removal of the thyroid gland, irradiation of the gland, or inflammatory conditions.
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