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Hypothyroidism vs.Hyperthyroidism: Thyroid Issues for Women

Hypo-thyroidism versus hyper-thyroidism — what’s the difference between these types of thyroid disorders? What are the signs and symptoms; and — most importantly — what CAUSES thyroid issues in women? In this video, I’ll be telling you everything you need to know to help you in your journey towards a healthier thyroid! Coming right up — 

Did you know that NEARLY 20 MILLION AMERICANS HAVE THYROID PROBLEMS?! Women are five to eight times more likely to develop a thyroid issue compared to men — so we’ll be focusing on women in this video, but men — you’ll also benefit from this great info!

So, first of all, what is the thyroid?! And what does the thyroid gland do? The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped organ located in your neck, right below your Adam’s apple. Its job is to produce the thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These hormones are responsible for your metabolism and hormone balance. They affect SO MANY FUNCTIONS IN YOUR BODY — your heartbeat, digestion, body temperature, mood — and ESPECIALLY your body’s energy levels!

In individuals with a thyroid condition, the thyroid will either produce TOO MUCH or NOT ENOUGH thyroid hormone — causing irregular energy levels and weight changes, among many other symptoms. This can be the result of either HYPO-thyroidism or HYPER-thyroidism.

Both have some similar causes:

  • Family history 
  • Autoimmune disorders 
  • Thyroiditis (which is inflammation of the thyroid gland)
  • A damaged pituitary gland 
  • And Pregnancy — to name a few.

Now let’s jump into the specifics of each disorder, so we know what to look out for!

First, HYPO-thyroidism is a condition where the thyroid is UNDERACTIVE. This means it is NOT PRODUCING ENOUGH thyroid hormone for your body to regulate a normal metabolism. Hypo-thyroidism is the most common type of thyroid disorder and affects 10x more women than men.

Causes of Hypothyroidism include:

  • Aging 
  • Hashimoto’s disease 
  • Radiation treatment 
  • Lack of iodine 
  • And Congenital hypo-thyroidism 

If you have hypo-thyroidism, some of the symptoms you might experience are: 

  • Feeling fatigued or sluggish
  • Weight gain
  • Forgetfulness
  • Constipation
  • Feeling cold
  • Dry skin
  • Brittle hair
  • Slow heart rate
  • And Depression

Okay — you with me so far? Great.

Now, moving on — HYPER-thyroidism is the opposite which means the thyroid is OVER-active. When this is the case, the thyroid is producing an EXCESSIVE amount of thyroid hormone, leading to a quick metabolic rate. 

Causes of Hyper-thyroidism include:

  • Graves’ disease 
  • Thyroid nodules
  • And too much iodine 

Symptoms of Hyper-thyroidism include:

  • Nervousness and anxiety
  • Weight loss
  • Goiter (an enlarged thyroid)
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Irregular menstrual cycle
  • Restlessness
  • Itchiness
  • Feeling hot
  • And Diarrhea 

The effects of both hypo and hyperthyroidism are significant for women’s health. Both diseases can result in infertility, miscarriage, irregular menstrual cycles, menopausal difficulties, and low libidos. Because the health of the thyroid is connected to reproductive function, keeping your thyroid healthy can be a great way to keep your reproductive hormones balanced.

If you are worried you have a thyroid problem, check your family history and look out for symptoms — and before you self-diagnose, consult with your naturopath or doctor. A blood test will be necessary to determine if you are experiencing issues with your thyroid function.

In the meantime, know that you can support the health of your thyroid through your diet and lifestyle too! Check the description below for links to more helpful videos about thyroid issues for women and how to heal your thyroid naturally. And of course — we are here to help! You can comment below with any questions you have about thyroid health and feel free to reach out to our Wellness Team through the LiveChat feature on our website!

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Watch the original video on YouTube here, “Hypothyroidism vs.Hyperthyroidism: Thyroid Issues for Women”