Actor Stanley Tucci recently talked about his health. He spoke about having an underactive thyroid. He shared his story on David Tennant’s podcast. Tucci said he felt very tired after his cancer treatment. This was his first sign. His story shows why it is important to know the early signs of this condition.
Many people, like Tucci, do not know they an underactive thyroid. They may think they are just tired or stressed. But knowing the signs can help people get the right treatment. This article will explain what an underactive thyroid is, what causes it, and the common symptoms.
What is an Underactive Thyroid?
An underactive thyroid is also called hypothyroidism. It happens when the thyroid gland does not make enough hormones. The thyroid is a small gland in the neck. It helps control energy levels and body temperature. When it does not work well, the body slows down.
Doctors say the main cause of hypothyroidism is an illness called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. But other things can also cause it. In Tucci’s case, cancer treatments like radiation and chemotherapy affected his thyroid.
Other causes include:
- Treatment for an overactive thyroid
- Surgery to remove the thyroid
- Exposure to radiation
- Some medicines
- Not enough iodine in food (more common in some countries)
Common Signs of an Underactive Thyroid
The signs of hypothyroidism appear slowly. Many people do not notice them at first. Anna Woollven from the British Thyroid Foundation says it feels like the body is “slowing down.”
Here are common signs:
- Feeling very tired
- Gaining weight without eating more
- Feeling cold all the time
- Trouble focusing (brain fog)
- Feeling sad or anxious
- Dry skin and dry hair
- Hair falling out
- Constipation (trouble going to the bathroom)
- Weak or sore muscles
- Joint pain
- Hoarse voice
- Slow heartbeat
- Heavy or irregular periods
- Low sex drive
- Puffy face
Not everyone has all these symptoms. Some people have mild signs, and others have more serious ones. If you have many of these signs, see a doctor.
How Do Doctors Find and Treat Hypothyroidism?
Doctors do a blood test to check thyroid hormone levels. If the levels are low, it means the thyroid is not working well.
The good news is that doctors can treat hypothyroidism. They give a medicine called levothyroxine. This replaces the missing hormone. Regular doctor visits help find the right dose.
Also Read: What King Charles’ Eclectic Playlist Reveals About His Personality
What We Learn from Stanley Tucci’s Story
Stanley Tucci’s story teaches us important things:
- Listen to your body: Do not ignore feeling very tired.
- Know your risk: Cancer treatment and family history can increase the risk.
- Early treatment helps: Getting help early prevents bigger problems.
- It can be managed: With medicine, people can live normal lives.
Take Care of Your Health
Knowing the signs of an underactive thyroid can help you take action. Stanley Tucci’s experience shows how important it is to pay attention to your health. If you think you have symptoms, talk to a doctor. The sooner you get help, the better you will feel.
Have you or someone you know had an underactive thyroid? Share your story in the comments!