Ask the Experts- May 2021

Dear Red Hot Mamas,

My doctor ran a thyroid test and now told me I have hypothyroidism. I thought my symptoms were just because I was entering menopause. I’m 46 years old. Can you explain what the symptoms of hypothyroidism are? I thank you very much for all you do to help women like me.

Kate

Dear Kate,

We appreciate your compliment and yes we are always there to provide help to women. We are pleased that you are under the care of a doctor and hope that your doctor has discussed ways in which to help you. An underactive thyroid is quite common in women and it is a highly treatable condition.

Some of the most common signs of hypothyroidism which is an underactive thyroid include:

• Feeling tired and fatigued
• Weight gain without overeating
• Feeling cold or sensitivity to cold
• Dry skin and coarse hair
• Mood swings
• Depression
• Reduced ability to concentrate
• Brain fog
• Constipation

You should see your doctor if you have two or more of these symptoms. And, of course, follow your doctor’s advice on your medication program and always include healthy lifestyle measures.

Thank you for your letter to our experts.