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Hypothyroidism: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Hypothyroidism, also known as an underactive thyroid gland, is a clinical disorder in which the thyroid gland does not generate sufficient thyroid hormones to meet the body's requirements. The thyroid gland releases hormones into the body that control how the body utilizes energy. In the case of hypothyroidism, the body's functions slow down.

The normal thyroid levels are:

  • T3: 100–200 nanograms per deciliter of blood (ng/dL)
  • T4: 4.5 – 11.2 micrograms per deciliter of blood (mcg/dL)
  • TSH: 0.4 – 5.0 milli-international units per litre (mIU/dL)
Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism symptoms

Hypothyroidism symptoms vary from one person to another. At first, they are challenging to detect and appear slowly. They can be mistaken as symptoms of depression. The general Signs of hypothyroidism are:

  • Weakness
  • Irritability
  • Depression
  • Sensitivity to cold
  • Dull facial expressions
  • Hoarse voice
  • Slow speech
  • Droopy eyelids
  • Puffy and swollen face
  • Obesity
  • Confusion
  • Constipation
  • Dry, coarse and sparse hair
  • Coarse, dry, and thickened skin
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Slow pulse rate
  • Muscle cramps
  • Sides of eyebrows thin or fall out
Hypothyroidism Symptoms

Hypothyroidism symptoms in females

Women are more prone to having thyroid disease than men. Hypothyroidism symptoms in females are as follows:

Menstrual problems:

  • It includes very light, heavy, or irregular periods. Thyroid disorders can also stop your periods for many months or longer. This is a condition called amenorrhea.
  • When thyroid problems affect the menstrual cycle in a woman, it also disturbs ovulation, thus making it difficult to get pregnant.
  • Hypothyroidism during pregnancy can affect both the mother and the unborn baby.
  • In a few cases, symptoms of thyroid disease are mistaken for menopause symptoms. Hypothyroidism is more likely to develop after menopause.

Hypothyroidism Causes

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce adequate hormones. The following conditions or problems can cause hypothyroidism:

  • Autoimmune diseases: In rare situations, our body's immune system can mistake thyroid gland cells and their enzymes as foreign invaders and target them. As a result, there aren't enough thyroid cells and enzymes left to produce adequate thyroid hormones. This condition is more frequent in females than in males. The most common forms of autoimmune thyroiditis are Hashimoto's thyroiditis and atrophic thyroiditis.
  • Thyroidectomy: Some people with goitre, thyroid cancer, thyroid nodules, or Graves' disease need to undergo thyroidectomy. If the thyroid gland is completely removed, people will indeed become hypothyroid. If only a partial gland is removed, the thyroid gland can produce adequate thyroid hormones to keep blood levels regular.
Causes of Hypothyroidism
  • Radiotherapy: Some cancer patients need to undergo radiotherapy involving the head and neck. This cancer treatment can affect the functioning of the thyroid gland, causing hypothyroidism.
  • Congenital hypothyroidism (CHT): It occurs when the thyroid gland fails to develop or function effectively. A few newborn babies are born without a thyroid gland or a partly formed one, and some have ectopic thyroid.
  • Thyroiditis: Thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid gland. It can occur due to an autoimmune attack or a viral infection.

Risk factors of hypothyroidism

The risk factors involved are -

Diagnosis

The correct hypothyroidism test involves the following conditions.

  • Medical history: If you have had any thyroid surgery or thyroid treatment, this may have an impact on the functional ability of your thyroid gland
  • Physical examination: The thyroid specialists will examine your thyroid gland and look for symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as dry skin and hair, hoarse voice, droopy eyelids, swollen face, or a slower heart rate.
  • Blood tests (thyroid function test, TFTs), including:
    • TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) test
    • T4 tests
  • Imaging tests: Thyroid scan, radioactive iodine uptake test, or ultrasound scan.

Hypothyroidism Treatment

  • Hormone Replacement Therapy: The primary treatment for hypothyroidism involves hormone replacement therapy, typically with synthetic thyroid hormone medication such as levothyroxine (Synthroid, Levoxyl). This medication helps replenish the body's deficient thyroid hormone levels, effectively managing symptoms and restoring thyroid function.
  • Individualized Dosage Adjustment: Treatment often begins with an initial dose of thyroid hormone medication based on the severity of hypothyroidism, age, weight, and other individual factors. Over time, the dosage may need to be adjusted through regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels via blood tests to ensure optimal treatment efficacy and minimize side effects.
  • Consistent Medication Adherence: Individuals with hypothyroidism must take their thyroid hormone medication consistently and as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Missing doses or inconsistent medication adherence can lead to fluctuations in thyroid hormone levels and exacerbate symptoms.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can complement medical treatment for hypothyroidism and promote overall well-being. This includes maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrient-dense foods, regular exercise to support metabolism and energy levels, managing stress effectively, and getting adequate sleep.
  • Avoiding Interference with Medications: Certain medications, supplements, and dietary factors can interfere with the absorption or effectiveness of thyroid hormone medication. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting or discontinuing any medications or supplements to avoid potential interactions and ensure optimal treatment outcomes.

Prevention of Hypothyroidism

  • Maintain a Balanced Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in iodine, selenium, and zinc can support thyroid function and reduce the risk of hypothyroidism. Include foods like seafood, dairy products, nuts, seeds, and whole grains in your diet.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact thyroid function. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies to help manage stress levels and support thyroid health.
  • Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity to support metabolism, energy levels, and overall well-being. For optimal health benefits, aim for a combination of cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
  • Limit Exposure to Environmental Toxins: Minimize exposure to environmental toxins such as pollutants, pesticides, and heavy metals, which can interfere with thyroid function. Use natural cleaning products, filter drinking water, and avoid unnecessary exposure to chemicals whenever possible.
  • Check Thyroid Function Regularly: Periodic screening for thyroid function through blood tests can help detect thyroid dysfunction early and facilitate prompt treatment. Discuss screening recommendations with a healthcare provider, especially if you have a family history of thyroid disorders or risk factors.
  • Avoid Smoking: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of autoimmune thyroid disorders, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis, a common cause of hypothyroidism. Quit smoking or avoid exposure to secondhand smoke to reduce the risk of thyroid-related complications.
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity and excess weight can contribute to thyroid dysfunction and increase the risk of developing hypothyroidism. Adopt a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long can hypothyroidism last?

Hypothyroidism is a chronic condition that typically requires ongoing treatment. Once diagnosed, it can be managed effectively with medication, and most individuals will need to take thyroid hormone replacement therapy for the rest of their lives.

2. What organs are affected by hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism affects various organs and systems in the body. The most notable impacts are on the thyroid gland itself, as it fails to produce enough thyroid hormones. However, the condition can also affect the heart, brain, skin, metabolism, and other organs, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and cognitive issues.

3. Can I live a normal life with hypothyroidism?

Yes, individuals with hypothyroidism can live normal and fulfilling lives with proper medical management. Once diagnosed and receiving appropriate treatment, most people experience a significant improvement in symptoms and can maintain their overall health and well-being.

4. Can hypothyroidism be cured?

Hypothyroidism is usually a lifelong condition that requires ongoing management, but with treatment, including hormone replacement therapy and lifestyle changes, symptoms can be effectively controlled.

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