Lack of TH in foetal and early neonatal life leads to a condition called cretinism in which there is a mental retardation. Thyroid hormones inhibit the secretion of TSH by negative feedback. Thyroid hormones stimulate metabolism, so when TH levels are high, BMR is elevated. Thyrotoxicosis is caused by an overactive thyroid gland. Low levels of thyroid hormones cause myxoedema.