Hypothyroidism Causes

What causes hypothyroidism?

Almost all hypothyroidism cases are caused by a problem with the thryoid, while about 5% are caused by a problem in the brain or the pituitary gland which is just below the brain.

The main cause include:

-Hashimoto's thyroiditis: This is a problem with the immune system and is the most common cause of hypothyroidism.

-Treatment of hyperthyroidism: Ironically, treatment of one type of thyroid disease can cause the other one, because of the use of radioactive iodine.

-Treatment of thyroid tumors: The surgical procedure to remove a thyroid tumor or benign tissue can lead to hypothyroidism.

-Radiation treatment for head and neck cancer: This can also result in hypothyroidism.

-Drugs: Some drugs can interfere with the production of thyroid hormone. One example is lithium.

-Subacute Thyroiditis: This inflammatory disease produces a mild form of hypothyroidism that goes away naturally.

-Postpartum Thyroiditis: After pregnancy, this condition may cause hypothyroidism.

-Pituitary gland malfunction: When the pituitary gland fails to produce enough of a hormone called TSH, hypothyroidism can result.