Hypothyroidism

 

Hypothyroidism is a condition where thyroid gland is less active. The amount of thyroid hormone produced is less than the optimum levels.The thyroid hormone is an essential metabolic hormone.

It is seen in adults above the age of 40 years. It is more common in women.

 

 

1. Autoimmune thyroiditis,also known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis where body’s immune system attacks and damage cells of thyroid gland

2. Severe iodine deficiency

3. Congenital birth defects

4. Pregnancy

 

 

Common symptoms are,  

1. Weight gain

2. Fatigue

3. Constipation

4. Cold intolerance

5. Coarse, dry hair

6. Brittle nails

7. Dry, rough skin

8. Hair loss

9. Muscle cramps and frequent muscle aches

10. Puffiness of face

11. Depression

12. Irritability

13. Decreased concentration

14. Memory loss

15. Irregular menstrual cycles

16. Decreased libido

 

 

1. Your doctor will ask you to get your Thyroid tests done. 

a) Thyroid hormone levels consisting of T3, T4 levels

b) TSH levels

2. Other tests to detect auto antibodies for thyroid

3. Thyroid gland scan

 

 

1. Medications include, 

a)Synthetic forms of the T4 thyroid hormone

 

 

1. Compensatory goiter- this occurs due to high levels of TSH secretion from pituitary gland.

2. Low blood pressure

3. Low blood sugar

4. Severe depression

5. Infertility

6. Miscarriage

7. Osteoporosis

8. May result in heart failure or coma