Anxiety is a common psychological disorder that can have a significant impact on daily life. It can manifest itself in many different ways, including panic attacks, feelings of restlessness, and physical symptoms such as headaches or chest pain. For those with hypothyroidism, anxiety could be one of the symptoms that arise due to the condition.
What is Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a medical condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. The thyroid hormones are responsible for regulating metabolism, which can impact many different aspects of life, including energy levels, body weight, and even mood. If the thyroid is not producing enough hormones, the body will not be able to function properly, which can lead to a variety of symptoms, including anxiety.
How Does Hypothyroidism Cause Anxiety?
Anxiety can be caused by a number of different factors, including low levels of hormones produced by the thyroid. Low levels of thyroid hormones can lead to fatigue, which can be a major contributing factor to anxiety. Additionally, low levels of thyroid hormones can affect the levels of other hormones, such as cortisol, which could also lead to anxiety.
Hypothyroidism can also cause a lack of focus and difficulty concentrating, which can contribute to feelings of anxiety. Poor memory and difficulty concentrating can lead to feelings of stress, which can exacerbate anxiety. Additionally, low thyroid hormones can lead to a decrease in serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood.
What Are the Symptoms of Hypothyroidism-Induced Anxiety?
The symptoms of anxiety caused by hypothyroidism can vary, but some common symptoms include: feeling overwhelmed, difficulty concentrating, feeling irritable, difficulty sleeping, feeling restless, and difficulty making decisions. Other physical symptoms of anxiety can include rapid breathing, sweating, and a racing heart.
How Is Hypothyroidism-Induced Anxiety Diagnosed?
If you are experiencing anxiety and suspect that it could be due to hypothyroidism, it is important to speak to your doctor. Your doctor will likely perform a physical exam as well as a blood test to check your thyroid hormone levels. If your thyroid hormone levels are low, your doctor will likely recommend treatment for both the hypothyroidism and anxiety.
How Is Hypothyroidism-Induced Anxiety Treated?
The treatment of hypothyroidism-induced anxiety will depend on the severity of your anxiety and the underlying cause. If the underlying cause is hypothyroidism, your doctor will likely prescribe medication to treat the hypothyroidism. This medication will help to regulate your thyroid hormone levels, which can help to reduce the symptoms of anxiety.
In addition to medication, your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy diet. Additionally, your doctor may recommend counseling or therapy to help you manage your anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common form of therapy that can help to reduce anxiety symptoms.
Conclusion
Anxiety can be a difficult condition to manage, but if it is caused by hypothyroidism, it can be treated. If you are experiencing anxiety and think it may be due to hypothyroidism, it is important to speak to your doctor. Your doctor will be able to diagnose the condition and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.