Tag Archives: Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism and Depression

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The medical condition of hypothyroidism, i.e., an under-active thyroid gland, is one that can cause depression. Depression is a condition caused by chemical changes in the brain. The chemistry of the brain is also influenced by the chemistry of the blood. The thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped gland sits low in the neck, secretes hormones that regulate the body’s energy. In this way, the thyroid indirectly affects everything from muscles, bones, skin, digestive tract, heart and brain.

If you have hypothyroidism your thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, which causes blood levels of T3 and T4 to remain low. When thyroid hormone levels are low, organs and the internal systems slow down, creating a wide range of symptoms; depressed mood, fatigue, weight gain, reduced sexual desire and trouble concentrating, are also symptoms of depression. Not surprisingly, hyperthyroidism is often misdiagnosed as depression.

Hypothyroidism can be confirmed or ruled out with a blood test. Once diagnosed, it is usually treated with a thyroid pill that restores thyroid hormone levels to normal. Researchers aren’t sure why there is a link between hypothyroidism and depression. But hypothyroidism is associated with a host of varied symptoms and body malfunctions, including potentially lack of energy, stiffness, and weight gain, among many others. Clearly the low thyroid hormone levels in the blood affect the chemistry in the brain that leads to depression. In fact some doctors add thyroid medication to antidepressants treatment to improve mood.

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