Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones control metabolism, energy and growth. This common endocrine disorder slows down the body’s functions, resulting in chronic fatigue, unexplained weight gain even with normal eating habits, and increased sensitivity to cold. Other hallmark symptoms include constipation, dry and coarse skin, thinning of hair, muscle aches, joint stiffness, depression, brain fog, and women’s irregular menstrual cycles.

The most common cause of this condition in iodine-rich areas like India is autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's disease), where gradually the thyroid is attacked by the immune system.