Summary about Disease
Underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism, is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. These hormones are crucial for regulating metabolism, energy levels, and overall body function. Insufficient thyroid hormone levels can lead to a slowing down of bodily processes.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hypothyroidism can vary and develop gradually. Common symptoms include:
Fatigue
Weight gain
Constipation
Dry skin
Hair loss
Feeling cold
Muscle aches and stiffness
Joint pain
Depression
Impaired memory
Heavy or irregular menstrual periods
Slowed heart rate
Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
Causes
The most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Other causes include:
Thyroid surgery (partial or complete removal of the thyroid)
Radiation therapy to the neck or chest
Certain medications (e.g., lithium, amiodarone)
Iodine deficiency (rare in developed countries)
Congenital hypothyroidism (present at birth)
Pituitary gland disorders (secondary hypothyroidism)
Medicine Used
The standard treatment for hypothyroidism is thyroid hormone replacement therapy. The most common medication is levothyroxine, a synthetic form of thyroxine (T4). The dosage is individualized and adjusted based on thyroid hormone levels.
Is Communicable
No, hypothyroidism is not communicable. It is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
While hypothyroidism itself isn't preventable, some precautions can help manage the condition:
Adherence to medication: Take thyroid hormone replacement medication as prescribed and consistently.
Regular monitoring: Get regular blood tests to monitor thyroid hormone levels and adjust medication as needed.
Inform healthcare providers: Tell healthcare providers about your hypothyroidism before undergoing any medical procedures or taking new medications.
Dietary considerations: While iodine deficiency is rare, ensure adequate iodine intake through iodized salt or foods.
How long does an outbreak last?
Hypothyroidism is a chronic condition, not an outbreak. It requires lifelong management. Symptoms persist until thyroid hormone levels are adequately restored through medication. If left untreated, the symptoms can worsen over time.
How is it diagnosed?
Hypothyroidism is diagnosed through blood tests that measure thyroid hormone levels:
TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone): Elevated TSH is the most common indicator of hypothyroidism.
T4 (Thyroxine): Low T4 levels often accompany elevated TSH in hypothyroidism.
T3 (Triiodothyronine): Sometimes measured, but T4 and TSH are the primary diagnostic tests.
Thyroid antibodies: Tested to determine if Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the cause.
Timeline of Symptoms
The development of hypothyroidism symptoms is typically gradual.
Early stages: Mild fatigue, subtle weight gain, and mild constipation might be present for months or even years.
Progression: As the condition worsens, symptoms become more pronounced, including noticeable weight gain, severe fatigue, dry skin, hair loss, and depression.
Severe hypothyroidism (myxedema coma): In rare, untreated cases, severe hypothyroidism can lead to a life-threatening condition called myxedema coma, characterized by decreased mental status, hypothermia, and slowed breathing.
Important Considerations
Pregnancy: Untreated hypothyroidism during pregnancy can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby. It's essential to maintain optimal thyroid hormone levels during pregnancy.
Heart health: Hypothyroidism can affect heart function and cholesterol levels. Monitoring and treatment are crucial for people with heart conditions.
Medication interactions: Certain medications can interfere with thyroid hormone absorption. Discuss all medications with your doctor.
Subclinical hypothyroidism: Some individuals have elevated TSH but normal T4 levels. Management of this condition depends on the severity of TSH elevation and the presence of symptoms.