Today, Dr. Jade Malay, DC, a leading authority in thyroid health, offers essential insights into the symptoms of low thyroid and how it can significantly affect your daily life if left untreated. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Malay has dedicated her career to raising awareness about thyroid-related disorders and guiding people toward a healthier, more balanced life.
"Many people are walking around with an undiagnosed low thyroid, and they don't even know it. The symptoms can be quite subtle and often get mistaken for other health issues," says Dr. Jade Malay, DC. "It's essential to recognize these symptoms and seek appropriate treatment to prevent long-term complications."
Low thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism, occurs when the thyroid gland is underactive and unable to produce enough thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism and energy production in the body. According to Dr. Malay, approximately 1 in 20 people suffer from low thyroid, with women being more affected than men.
Key Symptoms of Low Thyroid
Dr. Jade Malay, DC, emphasizes that it's crucial to pay attention to changes in your body and be vigilant about possible symptoms, which may include:
-
Fatigue: One of the most common symptoms of low thyroid is persistent fatigue, even after a full night's sleep. Thyroid hormones regulate energy production, so an underactive thyroid can leave you feeling sluggish and exhausted.
-
Weight gain: Unexplained weight gain is another common sign of hypothyroidism. Low thyroid can slow down your metabolism, making it difficult to lose weight despite regular exercise and a healthy diet.
-
Cold intolerance: People with low thyroid may be more sensitive to cold temperatures. This is because thyroid hormones help regulate body temperature, and when they're low, the body may struggle to produce enough heat.
-
Dry skin and hair: Hypothyroidism can cause dry, rough skin and brittle hair, as thyroid hormones are involved in maintaining healthy skin and hair.
-
Constipation: A slow metabolism due to low thyroid can also slow down digestion, leading to constipation.
-
Depression and mood swings: Hypothyroidism can have a significant impact on mental health, causing depression, mood swings, and irritability.
-
Memory problems: A lack of thyroid hormones can affect cognitive function, leading to difficulty concentrating and memory issues.
Impact of Untreated Low Thyroid on Daily Life
If left untreated, low thyroid can severely impact a person's daily life, causing long-term complications. Dr. Jade Malay, DC, stresses the importance of seeking treatment as soon as symptoms are recognized:
-
Poor quality of life: Persistent fatigue, weight gain, and mood swings associated with low thyroid can lead to a decreased quality of life, making it difficult to enjoy daily activities.
-
Heart problems: Hypothyroidism can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
-
Infertility and pregnancy complications: Low thyroid can interfere with ovulation and increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and developmental problems in babies.
-
Joint pain and muscle weakness: Untreated hypothyroidism can cause joint pain, stiffness, and muscle weakness, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks.
-
Mental health issues: Depression and anxiety can become more severe if low thyroid is not treated, affecting personal and professional relationships.
Dr. Jade Malay, DC, recommends seeking medical advice if you suspect you may have a low thyroid. A simple blood test can help diagnose the
condition and appropriate treatment can be prescribed to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
Treatment Options and Lifestyle Changes
Dr. Jade Malay, DC, emphasizes that proper treatment for low thyroid is essential to restore thyroid hormone levels and improve overall health. The most common treatment is synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which can be adjusted according to individual needs. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor hormone levels and adjust medication dosages if needed.
In addition to medical treatment, Dr. Malay suggests incorporating lifestyle changes to support thyroid health:
-
Maintain a balanced diet: Eat a nutrient-rich diet, including iodine-rich foods such as fish, dairy products, and iodized salt. Incorporate selenium and zinc, which can be found in nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
-
Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively affect thyroid function. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, or mindfulness.
-
Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help improve energy levels and support overall thyroid health.
-
Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help support proper thyroid function.
By recognizing the symptoms of low thyroid and seeking prompt treatment, you can improve your daily life and prevent long-term health complications. If you suspect you may have a low thyroid, reach out to a qualified healthcare provider like Dr. Jade Malay, DC, to discuss your concerns and explore your treatment options.
About Dr. Jade Malay, DC
Dr. Jade Malay is a respected expert in thyroid health, with over 20 years of experience helping patients achieve optimal wellness. She is dedicated to raising awareness about thyroid-related disorders and providing personalized care to improve the quality of life for those affected by low thyroid.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jade Malay, DC visit her website or https://www.facebook.com/drjademalay/
