Thyroid: The Other Hormone, Regarding Women, Winter 2005

Regarding Women

Thyroid: The Other Hormone

With all the attention given lately to estrogen and progestin, it’s easy to overlook a lesser-known, but equally vital, hormonal influence: the thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism—which occurs when this gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone—is more common in women than in men. Symptoms include dry skin, constipation, fatigue, forgetfulness, weight gain, and hoarseness. Left unchecked, severe hypothyroidism can have serious consequences. But it can be diagnosed by your doctor with a simple blood test, and it’s easily treated.

Lancet, Vol. 363, No. 9411

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