What is hypothyroidism?

What is hypothyroidism?

• A. Insufficient production of thyroid hormones.
• B. Excessive production of thyroid hormones.
• C. Normal production of thyroid hormones.
• D. Insufficient production of adrenal hormones.

Answer: (A)

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. These hormones regulate metabolism, so when their levels are low, the body's rate of energy use slows down, leading to fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, constipation, and often a slower heart rate. The body may try to compensate by increasing TSH from the pituitary to stimulate the thyroid, especially in primary hypothyroidism. The opposite condition would be excessive thyroid hormone production (hyperthyroidism), normal production is euthyroid, and insufficient production of adrenal hormones refers to a different endocrine system (the adrenal glands), not the thyroid.

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. These hormones regulate metabolism, so when their levels are low, the body's rate of energy use slows down, leading to fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, constipation, and often a slower heart rate. The body may try to compensate by increasing TSH from the pituitary to stimulate the thyroid, especially in primary hypothyroidism. The opposite condition would be excessive thyroid hormone production (hyperthyroidism), normal production is euthyroid, and insufficient production of adrenal hormones refers to a different endocrine system (the adrenal glands), not the thyroid.