Thyroid problems ad fatigue

Question: I've heard that postpartum fatigue can be a sign of an underactive thyroid. How can I tell if my thyroid is the root of my tiredness and not sleep deprivation?

Answer: Approximately 5 to 10 percent of women experience a thyroid disorder known as postpartum thyroiditis. In this condition, a woman's immune system attacks the thyroid gland and at first causes it to become overactive (hyperthyroidism), and then causes a decrease in thyroid function (hypothyroidism). The period of hyperthyroidism is usually temporary, lasting a few months, but hypothyroidism can persist long after the postpartum period. Postpartum thyroiditis usually occurs four to 12 months after delivery, so if you just delivered your baby, you're probably just exhausted.

But keep your eye out for these symptoms of thyroid problems:Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland)Heat intoleranceIncreased appetiteWeight lossHeart rate greater than 100 beats per minute at restHeart palpitations (feeling your heart race or skip beats)InsomniaTremorsHypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland)Cold intoleranceDecreased appetiteConstipationInability to lose weight or weight gainDry skinDepressionFatigueSee your healthcare provider if you are having these symptoms. Simple blood work can be performed to check your thyroid function and make a diagnosis. If you are diagnosed with postpartum thyroiditis, you may not need any treatment at all because the thyroid usually gets better by itself. However, your care provider will monitor you closely and perform blood tests to make sure you're on the road to recovery. If the hypothyroidism persists, you will be prescribed thyroid hormone to replenish what your thyroid is not making. This medication is safe for breastfeeding women. source- babycenter.com