Hypothyroidism is a condition of an underactive thyroid. Thyroid is one of the largest and biggest glands in the body and it produces two types of essential hormones: thyroxine or T4 and triiodothyronine or T3. The activity of the thyroid gland is very important in the metabolic process work.

Low levels of thyroid hormone in the blood cause underactive thyroid. It happens when the thyroid gland produces fewer hormones than necessary. In other cases the pituitary gland can also cause the condition. The condition is characterized by weakness, slow heart beat, irregular menstrual cycle and some others.

Other symptoms of the condition are fatigue, cold intolerance, pain in joints and muscles, constipation, appetite loss, etc. Weight changes are also frequent as well as dryness of skin; memory and concentration problems are also reported.

It is very important to diagnose and start the treatment of the condition in time otherwise it is fraught with complications. One of them is myxedema. This means that the hormone levels have become too low and they cause puffiness of face, lack of sensation in arms and legs, weakness, hair loss, sleepiness and the like. Elderly people in particular are prone to suffer from hearing ability, memory loss, depression and uneasiness.   Myxederma combined with infections, injuries or some medications are also able to evoke coma; in this case it can turn to be dangerous.

It is recommended that a blood test should be carried out in case an underactive thyroid is suspected. Hormone levels can be kept normal if a daily dose of a thyroxine tablet. Pregnant women with underactive thyroid should be given a medication in order to make sure the baby will grow healthy.