Underactive thyroid

Underactive thyroid is also called Hypothyroidism and refers to a deficient production of hormones by the thyroid gland. The two best-known hormones produced in the thyroid gland are called triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). In the case of hypothyroidism, they are not produced in sufficient quantities. Both have an iodine component and the hormone deficiency has a negative effect on the body’s metabolic processes and slows them down. The slowed metabolic processes reduce performance, which can manifest itself as fatigue and poor concentration, among other things.

The causes of hypothyroidism are very complex and often inflammation or damage of the thyroid gland precedes. In addition, a pronounced iodine deficiency or genetic predisposition can also be a cause. Diagnosis is made by detecting the thyroid hormones themselves, or by detecting TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). This hormone is not produced in the thyroid gland, but in the pituitary gland. TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce the various thyroid hormones. An increased TSH level in the blood can be a sign of hypothyroidism, because as soon as the thyroid gland becomes weaker, the pituitary gland increases the production of TSH.