Hypothyroidism is a common medical condition that affects as many as 10 million people in the country, and it is more likely to affect women than men. It is characterized by the lack of thyroid secretion in the body.

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located below the larynx, with two lobes on either side of the windpipe. It is responsible for secreting hormones that regulate the metabolic rate of the body. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) secreted by the pituitary gland regulates the production of the thyroid hormone. The thyroid produces two hormones, TS3 and TS4.

The thyroid gland is in charge of producing the thyroid hormone. Excessive secretion of this hormone causes hyperthyroidism, while a decreased secretion leads to hypothyroidism. An underactive thyroid secretes less amount of the hormone, which results in a slower metabolism.

Causes and symptoms of hypothyroidism
The two main causes of hypothyroidism are previous or current inflammation of the thyroid gland and medical treatments. Hashimoto’s disease, which is an autoimmune disorder, is the most common cause of this disorder. It causes inflammation of the thyroid gland, resulting in its failure. The other cause of this condition is treatments that involve partial or complete removal of the thyroid gland. In some cases, other treatments like radioactive iodine treatment may also lead to hypothyroidism.

Common symptoms of hypothyroidism are:

• Muscle cramps or frequent muscle aches
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Dry, rough, and pale skin
• Loss of hair or coarse, dry hair
• Weight gain
• Inability to lose weight
• Loss of memory
• Irritability
• Abnormal menstrual cycles
• Decreased libido

Workout guide for people with hypothyroidism
Low-intensity exercises can be done by people who are experiencing the symptoms of this disease.

• Walking: Regular walking is one of the best workouts for this disorder. Just wear a pair of comfortable shoes to prevent any discomfort caused by walking for a long time.
• Yoga: Yogic exercises are a great way to stretch and strengthen your muscles. Some exercises also help in controlling the breathing pattern.
• Water aerobics: For some people, hypothyroidism may cause swelling of the ankles and feet. For such people, water aerobics is a good option because water reduces the impact on the joints.
• Strength training: Strengthening your muscles is a great way to ease joint pain. Lifting weights or building muscle using body weight are strength training exercises suitable for people with hypothyroidism.
• Tai chi: This exercising method is also called moving meditation. It is a slow-motion version of martial arts that provides relief from stress and helps build balance and strength.

If a person’s hypothyroidism is under control, then they can follow a regular workout plan.

The symptoms of hypothyroidism may vary depending on the severity and duration of the deficiency. But, it is possible to keep this condition in check with the help of medications and the right workout plan.