Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism Introduction

• Hypothyroidism of thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located in the neck, in front of the trachea.
• It produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy generation, and overall growth and development.
• Thyroid diseases are common and can affect the structure or function of the thyroid gland.
• Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones (thyroxine T4 and triiodothyronine T3).
• This leads to a slowing down of the body’s metabolic processes.

Causes

1. Autoimmune Disease: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause, where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.
2. Iodine Deficiency: Insufficient iodine intake can impair thyroid hormone production.
3. Thyroid Surgery: Removal of the thyroid gland can lead to hypothyroidism.
4. Radiation Therapy: Radiation treatment for head and neck cancers can damage the thyroid gland.
5. Medications: Some drugs can interfere with thyroid hormone production.
6. Congenital Hypothyroidism: A condition present at birth due to a defective thyroid gland.

Symptoms

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Cold intolerance
• Dry skin and hair
• Constipation
• Muscle weakness and cramps
• Depression
• Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
• Menstrual irregularities

Diagnosis

1. Blood Tests:

   • Measurement of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (T4) levels.
   • High TSH and low T4 indicate hypothyroidism.

2. Thyroid Antibody Tests:

   • To diagnose autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis).

Pathophysiology of Hypothyroidism:

1. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Autoimmune destruction of the thyroid gland leading to reduced thyroid hormone production.
2. Iodine Deficiency: Inadequate iodine intake results in insufficient thyroid hormone synthesis.

Treatment

• Thyroid Hormone Replacement: Levothyroxine, a synthetic form of T4, is the standard treatment to normalize hormone levels.

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