What is Hypothyroidism?

Posted by Healthfitline On Monday, April 22, 2013
Hypothyroidism results from hyposecretion of thyroid hormone (T3 and T4) by the thyroid glands. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto, an autoimmune disorder in which the body starts attacking its own thyroid glands.
 
Other possible causes and risk factors of hypothyroidism are;
  • Individuals with previous history of hyperthyroidism whose thyroid glands have been removed (thyroidectomy).
  • Individuals with previous history of hyperthyroidism who have been treated with radioiodine or anti-thyroid drugs.
  • Individuals who previously suffered from neck or head cancer and underwent a radiation therapy.
  • Advancing age which can lead to atrophy of the thyroid gland.
  • Gender - more common in female aged between 30 and 60 years.
  • Medications, such as lithium and iodine compounds.
  • Lack of adequate iodine in the diet.
  • Congenital or present at the time of birth (cretinism).  
Hypothyroidism Symptoms 
Early signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism may include; 
  • Extreme fatigue 
  • Weak and brittle nails 
  • Dry skin 
  • Numbness and tingling of the fingers 
  • Constipation 
  • Menstrual abnormalities - heavier menstrual flow.
  • Hoarseness 
Late Symptoms of Hypothyroidism 
  • Lower than normal body temperature and pulse rate. 
  • Weight gain without increase of food intake. 
  • The skin become thickened 
  • Hair thinning and hair fall 
  • Cold intolerance (individuals always complain of feeling cold). 
  • Slowed speech 
  • Increased irritability 
  • Decreased taste and smell 
Hypothyroidism Complications 
If hypothyroidism is left untreated, it can led to very low thyroid hormones in the blood, a condition known as Myxedema Coma. Myxedema Coma may be precipitated by severe cold, opiods analgesics, sudden withdrawal of thyroid medications and an acute illness or an infection.  
 
Myxedema Coma Signs and Symptoms 
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension) 
  • Low body temperature 
  • Low sodium level in the blood 
  • Low blood glucose 
  • Slowed breathing, leading to high level of carbondioxide in the blood. 
  • Low oxygen levels in the tissue.  
Other complications that can result from hypothyroidism include; 
  • Heart diseases - coronary artery disease, increased cholesterol levels. 
  • Heart attack - in severe cases of hypothyroidism (myxedema coma). 
  • Decreased libido 
  • Birth defects or giving birth to a child with defects. 
  • Dementia- characterized by cognitive and personality changes.
  • Decreased breathing while asleep. 
  • Respiratory muscle weakness and pleural effusion. 
Hypothyroidism Diagnostic Tests 
Physical Examination - The doctor palpitate the thyroid gland for size and other abnormalities. The thyroid gland may be normal, decreased or increased. Doctor also examine the nails, hair, skin and face for any abnormalities. 
 
Serum or Blood Tests -  to measure the blood levels of TSH (thyroid stimulating hormones), T3 and T4. 
 
Other tests that may be performed include; measurement of cholesterol levels, CBC (complete blood count), measurements of electrolytes like sodium and kidney function tests.
  
Hypothyroidism Treatment 
The major goal of hypothyroidism treatment is to replace the missing thyroid hormone in order to restore back a normal metabolism state. A synthetic thyroid medication (levothyroxine) is usually prescribed, based on the level of TSH hormone in the blood.
 
Your doctor will prescribe a specific dose and your TSH levels will be monitored, regularly until when the blood hormones levels will go back to normal. Once the hormone levels have stabilized, you will still continue taking your medications as prescribed by your doctor. However, your doctor will now schedule for a check up every six months or every after one year. Most patients suffering from hypothyroidism will require a lifetime treatment. 
 
Hypothyroidism Prevention 
There is no known ways to prevent hypothyroidism. However, there are several measures that you can take to protect your child and to avoid developing complications; 
 
  • Make sure your newborn is screened for congenital hypothyroidism after birth. 
  • Take your thyroid medications as prescribed by your doctor. 
  • Do not stop taking your thyroid medication even if you are feeling well. 
  • If you are taking any other medications, inform your doctor. 
  • Seek your doctor's help if you are thinking of changing your thyroid medication brand. 
  • Consult your doctor before taking any supplements like iron, multivitamins, calcium etc. 
  • Keep yourself warm if you feel cold.
  • Avoid exposing yourself to cold weather until your thyroid hormone levels have stabilized.
  • Avoid situation that can lead to infection. 
  • Talk to your dietitian about the right diet that will help you to lose weight and prevent constipation. 
  • Seek urgent medical help if you are experiencing signs and symptoms of thyroid medication overdose, such as, feeling your heart beating (palpitation), nervousness, sweating, weight loss, restlessness. If thyroid symptoms are becoming worse or your condition is not improving. If you are experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing or dizziness.
Labels: Diseases and Conditions, home, Hypothyroidism

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