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Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism: Understanding and Managing Your Condition

This information is intended for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment tailored to your individual needs.

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones to meet the needs of the human body. This is the most common cause of abnormal thyroid function, 2-3% of the general population.

Thyroid hormone plays a vital role in regulating metabolism (energy production and utilisation), thus maintaining energy levels, and overall well-being. When thyroid hormone levels are too low, the body’s functioning slows down, leading to various adverse symptoms and health problems. Thyroid hormone plays an important role in the regulation of growth in children.

Thyroid hormone exists in two different forms in the body – T4 and T3. T3, present in very small quantities, is biologically more active than T4.

Normal Total daily Thyroid hormone section

What are Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

The symptoms of hypothyroidism can vary widely and may develop slowly over time. Common symptoms include:

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a specialist healthcare provider like an endocrinologist for full evaluation and diagnosis.

Causes and Risk Factors

Primary hypothyroidism: most common, Low T4/T3 and elevated TSH.

Central hypothyroidism: Uncommon, pituitary cause, Low T4/T3 and low/normal TSH

Subclinical hypothyroidism is defined biochemically as a normal free T4 concentration in the presence of an elevated TSH concentration.

Several factors can contribute development of Primary to the hypothyroidism, including:

Autoimmune Disease:

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common cause, where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

Thyroid Surgery:

Removing all or part of the thyroid gland leading to reduced or loss of thyroid hormone production.

Radiation Therapy:

Treatment for cancers of the head and neck can affect the thyroid gland.

Medications:

Certain medications can affect thyroid hormone production.

Iodine Deficiency or Excess:

Both too little and too much iodine can affect thyroid function.

Populations at Risk for Hypothyroidism

Women

Prior history of Graves disease or postpartum thyroid dysfunction

Elderly

Other autoimmune disease

Family history of

- Thyroid disease

- Pernicious anemia

- Type 1 Diabetes mellitus

Diagnosis

To diagnose hypothyroidism, medical history, physical examination and blood analysis are employed. The main exam is to establish the amount of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) in the blood. The TSH levels are normally high in case of an underactive thyroid. In addition, we also measure thyroid hormones. Thyroid antibodies are checked to assess the risk or cause of hypothyroidism.

Treatment

The mainstay of treatment for hypothyroidism involves the use of a thyroid hormone called levothyroxin daily. This medication normalises the level of hormones and addresses symptoms of the disease. It is desirable to take this medicine according to the prescription and regularly see your consultant to check on hormone levels in your body and change the dosage if necessary.

Sometimes, we have to consider alternative or additional options depending on the patient’s needs and clinical situation.

Stay Healthy with Hypothyroidism

This will include medication and some lifestyle modifications. Here are a few tips to living well with hypothyroidism:

Medication Adherence: Take your thyroid medicine every day, if possible at the same time of the day.
Regular Monitoring: Keep up with scheduled blood tests. Such blood tests can let one know how well their thyroid is working.
Balanced Diet: Ensure well-nutrition balanced diet. There is no benefit of excess iodine intake which can be hazardous in some cases.
Exercise: Regular physical activity will help in keeping up the weight, exercise tolerance and will improve general health.
Stay Informed: The more you know about hypothyroidism, the better you can cope with it. Learn about new treatments and approaches to managing the disease.

Hypothyroidism Q&A

Can hypothyroidism be cured?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for hypothyroidism. However, this can be effectively managed with medication and lifestyle changes.

How often should I have my thyroid levels checked?

Initially, thyroid hormone levels are checked frequently until the right dosage of medication is identified. Subsequently, we monitor thyroid functions annually or sooner if a clinical need arises.

Am I able to get pregnant with hypothyroidism?

Yes, but close contact with the treating doctor is essential to ensure that the hormone levels are under control both during the period leading up to conception and throughout pregnancy.

Are there any foods I should avoid?

While there is no requirement to stop any food, certain foods and supplements can interfere with thyroid hormone absorption. It is always advisable to discuss this with your consultant.