Dr. Tabor: I recently gained about 10 pounds over a short period of time. I was complaining about it to a few friends and they suggested that I might have a thyroid problem. What is the thyroid and how could it cause weight-gain? —JoAnn S., Bellevue, WA

JoAnn:
The thyroid gland produces hormones, which control the metabolism. According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, over 27 million Americans suffer from a thyroid disorder and only about half of these people have been diagnosed. This is because the symptoms of thyroid disorders run the gamut—from weight fluctuations to mood changes—and these indications can often be confused for other conditions.

Hypothyroidism is an under-active thyroid, meaning that not enough of the thyroid hormones are being produced. This imbalance has a direct effect on the rate your body burns calories, as well as, your heart rate and body temperature. The following symptoms vary for each individual case:

− Weight gain (usually does not exceed 20-30 pounds)
− Fatigue
− Muscle weakness or pain
− Increased blood cholesterol
− Dry, pale or puffy skin
− Depression
− Constipation
− Heavier menstrual periods

Many people discount the symptoms as just a part of life or getting older. In other cases, the combination of certain symptoms could be misdiagnosed; for example, weight gain, hot flashes, fatigue and irritability are signs of both hypothyroidism and menopause.

But if hypothyroidism goes undiagnosed, symptoms increase, the thyroid gland (located at the nape of the neck) can become enlarged, the risk of a heart attack nearly doubles and the condition can develop into an advanced form, which is life threatening. If you are concerned that you may have hypothyroidism, speak with your doctor about the symptoms you are experiencing. If he or she is concerned, they will most likely start by testing your blood—with a TSH test and/or T4 test.

Treatments include thyroid hormone replacement or natural alternatives.

In good health,
Dr. Tabor