Hypothyroidism: Causes and Risk Factors

The thyroid gland is one of the most important glands in the human body, as it plays a crucial role in performing many vital functions. However, some people may experience problems with this gland, such as hypothyroidism. So, what are the causes of this sluggishness? Keep reading to learn more about the causes of hypothyroidism and the factors that increase the risk of developing this problem in detail.

Hypothyroidism Causes

Hypothyroidism can be primary or secondary. Primary causes refer to conditions that directly affect the thyroid gland, resulting in low hormone production levels. Secondary causes are health issues not directly related to the thyroid gland itself but interfere with its ability to produce hormones. In the following an explanation of these causes is provided:

• Primary Causes

Primary causes of hypothyroidism include:

1. Hashimoto's Disease

Hashimoto's disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. It is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system produces antibodies to attack and destroy the thyroid gland, preventing it from producing and releasing enough hormones.

2. Thyroiditis

The thyroid gland may become inflamed due to exposure to infection or as a result of an autoimmune disorder or another medical condition affecting it. Typically, thyroiditis stimulates the release of all stored hormones at once, initially causing hyperactivity of the thyroid gland and subsequently leading to hypothyroidism.

3. Iodine Deficiency Disorder

The thyroid gland requires iodine to produce its hormones, which is usually obtained from the diet. Therefore, not getting enough iodine prevents the thyroid gland from producing hormones and causes hypothyroidism.

4. Treatment for Hyperthyroidism

Treatments for hyperthyroidism, such as radioactive iodine therapy, medications, or surgery, can also lead to hypothyroidism.

5. Other Causes

In addition to the above, other causes of hypothyroidism include:

• Thyroid surgery: Undergoing surgery to remove the thyroid gland causes glandular sluggishness and failure.
• Use of Certain Medications: Some medications used to treat heart problems, cancer, and psychiatric conditions can affect the production of thyroid hormones.
• Radiation Therapy to the Neck Area: Treating certain types of cancers may involve exposing the neck to radiation, which damages some thyroid cells, making it difficult for them to produce hormones.
• Birth Defects: Hypothyroidism may result from a congenital defect in the thyroid gland or absence of the thyroid gland. This condition can lead to brain damage and growth failure if left untreated.

• Secondary Causes

Secondary hypothyroidism occurs when another problem interferes with the thyroid gland's ability to produce hormones, such as injury to the pituitary gland or the hypothalamic area due to any health issue.

As some problems affect the pituitary gland, it cannot send the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) to the thyroid gland to regulate its hormones, causing its sluggishness.

Risk Factors for Hypothyroidism

After learning about the causes of hypothyroidism, here are the categories most susceptible to this problem:

• Women are more prone to hypothyroidism than men.
• Advancing age increases the risk of hypothyroidism for individuals over 60 years old.
• Ethnicity plays a role, with Asians having an increased risk of hypothyroidism.
• Having a family history of thyroid problems.
• Having thyroid issues or undergoing thyroid surgery.
• Suffering from autoimmune disorders, such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or multiple sclerosis.
• Having Turner syndrome or Down syndrome.
• Being pregnant or having given birth in the last six months.
• Experiencing iodine deficiency in the body.

You can ensure the health of your thyroid gland by booking a thyroid test Package offered by Blazma, which does not require fasting or any other conditions.