Hypothyroidism

Thyroid Gland

The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland in the front of the neck below the “Adam’s Apple”. The gland controls the metabolic activities of the body. It produces thyroid hormones into the blood to exert its effect on the body.

Diseases affecting the gland can let it not work the way it should, leading to underproduction or overproduction of thyroid hormones. 

When the gland underperforms, it is called hypothyroidism. 

When it is overactive, it is called hyperthyroidism. 

Hypothyroidism

This occurs when the thyroid gland function is decreased. It therefore produces less thyroid hormones  leading to negative effects on the body.

Causes of hypothyroidism:

• Autoimmune conditions where your body produces certain proteins called antibodies which then attack and destroy the thyroid gland.

• Some medications can suppress the function of the thyroid gland

• Surgery to remove part or all the gland as occurs in thyroid cancer

• Radiation treatment of cancers of the head and neck can destroy the gland

• Medications to treat overactive thyroid taken in excess can cause hypothyroidism

• Iodine deficiency

• Pregnancy can cause the production of proteins that could attack and destroy the gland

• Pituitary gland disorder. The pituitary gland in the brain produces a thyroid stimulating hormone. Disease of the pituitary gland can lead to decreased production of the stimulating hormone.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism:

• Fatigue

• Dry skin

• Low libido

• Menstrual irregularities

• Heart disease

• Very sensitive to cold

• Hair loss

• Depression

• Memory deficits

• Pain and joint stiffness with swelling

• Constipation

• Muscle weakness

• Reduced heart rate

Diagnosis of hypothyroid:

• Medical history and physical examination

• Blood test

• Complications of hypothyroidism:

• It could lead to heart failure and low heart rates

• Goiter. This is a swelling of the thyroid gland. At times the swelling could cause swallowing or breathing issues

• It could lead to nerve damage as in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Infertility

• Depression

• Protruding eyes because of swelling behind the eyes

• Anemia

• Easy bleeding

• Drug toxicity because hypothyroidism reduces medication breakdown and excretion from the body. Medications like seizure medications, pain medications etc. then tend to build up in the body

• Obesity

• Chronic fatigue

Treatment of hypothyroidism:

• Thyroid hormone replacement. These are usually prescribed medications. Others also use natural supplements to help with thyroid health. Whichever way, I advise you discuss with your healthcare provider to see how best to treat this condition if you have it.

Francis Obeng MD

Alfa Medical Clinic PA