Hypothyroidism

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is the condition in which the thyroid is underactive (for example, it is producing an insufficient amount of thyroid hormones).

Thyroid Gland - Click to Enlarge

Hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid disorder. Severe hypothyroidism can lead to a condition called myxedema, characterized by dry, thickened skin, coarse facial features, confusion, decreased body temperature, decreased heart rate, and, possibly, coma.

What causes hypothyroidism?

The most common cause of hypothyroidism is the body's immune reaction to itself, producing antibodies against the thyroid gland. One such autoimmune disorder is called Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an inflammation of the thyroid gland. Other causes include treatment of hyperthyroidism such as radioactive iodine treatment or surgery.

What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?

Symptoms of hypothyroidism are usually very subtle and gradual and may be mistaken for symptoms of depression. The following are the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

• Dull facial expressions

• Hoarse voice

• Slow speech

• Droopy eyelids

• Puffy and swollen face

• Weight gain

• Constipation

• Sparse, coarse, and dry hair

• Coarse, dry, and thickened skin

• Carpal tunnel syndrome (hand tingling or pain)

• Slow pulse

• Muscle cramps

• Orange-colored soles and palms

• Sides of eyebrows thin or fall out

• Confusion

• Increased menstrual flow in women

Untreated hypothyroidism may lead to anemia, low body temperature, and heart failure.

The symptoms of hypothyroidism may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis. A condition called secondary hypothyroidism sometimes occurs as a result of a failing pituitary gland. When the pituitary gland fails, it no longer stimulates the thyroid to produce thyroid hormones.

How is hypothyroidism diagnosed?

In addition to a complete medical history and medical examination, diagnostic procedures for hypothyroidism may include blood tests to measure levels of thyroid hormones and the thyroid-stimulating hormones produced by the pituitary gland.

How is hypothyroidism treated?

The goal of treatment is to restore the thyroid gland to normal function, producing normal levels of thyroid hormones. Specific treatment for hypothyroidism will be determined by your doctor based on:

• Your age, overall health, and medical history

• Extent of the disease

• Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies

• Expectations for the course of the disease

• Your opinion or preference

Treatment may include prescription of thyroid hormones to replace the deficient hormones. Dosage of thyroid hormone may need to be increased over the years. Yearly or biyearly checkups are usually required to ensure the proper dosage of thyroid hormones is taken. A patient usually takes thyroid hormones for the rest of his or her life.