Hypothyroidism is a decreased activity of the thyroid gland which may affect all body functions. The rate of metabolism slows causing mental and physical sluggishness. The most severe form of hypothyroidism is myxedema, a medical emergency. Hypothyroidism can be caused by a problem with the thyroid itself (primary), or by the malfunction of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus (secondary).

Review Date: 9/25/2000 12:00:00 AM Reviewed By:J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director; G. Eric Morgan, MS3; RxRemedy

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