The thyroid is an endocrine gland that is located in the neck, slightly below the location of the Adam's apple. The two major hormones produced by the thyroid are thyroxine and triiodothyronine. These hormones are used to regulate metabolic functions. When low thyroid function or hypothyroidism occurs, the thyroid under produces these hormones. This can produce symptoms ranging from fatigue, muscle cramps and bradycardia (a heart rate under 60 beats a minute) to hair loss, anemia and reduced libido. Hypothyroidism can be caused by several factors, which are discussed below.
Iodine
Iodine is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones. In cases of iodine deficiency, the thyroid is unable to produce and this results in hypothyroidism.
Autoimmune Disorders
The autoimmune disorders Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Ord's thyroiditis can cause hypothyroidism. Both conditions involve the immune system attacking the thyroid and destroying thyroid cells. Ord's thyroiditis is an atrophic condition, meaning the the thyroid will begin to atrophy as the condition progresses.
Genetics
Hypothyroidism can be the result or at least influenced by genetics, though the exact relationship still remains poorly understood in the medical community.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy increases the risks of hypothyroidism in women because of hormonal changes in the body and increased iodine needs of both the mother and fetus.
Pituitary Gland
Hypothyroidism can also be caused if the pituitary gland is not functioning properly. The pituitary produces TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and, in the event it fails to produce sufficient amounts of TSH, hypothyroidism can result.
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