Hypothyroidism

Overview

Hypothyroidism refers to a condition where the thyroid gland is unable to produce enough thyroid hormones. Since the thyroid hormone plays a role in the body's metabolism, people with this condition will have a slow metabolism.

Signs and Symptoms

Decreased heartbeat, Irritability, Dry and pale skin, Slow reflexes, Depression, Dry coarse hair, Muscle cramps, Constipation, Weight gain, Menorrhagia, Ascites, Non-pitting edema

Common Causes

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Primary atrophic hypothyroidism, Iodine deficiency, Post thyroidectomy, Drug-induced, Subacute thyroiditis, Secondary hypothyroidism due to hypopituitarism

Risk Factors

Woman, Older than 60 years, Family history of thyroid disease, Autoimmune disease, Previous thyroid surgery, Previously treated with radioactive iodine or antithyroid medications, Have been pregnant or delivered a baby within past six months

Investigation Techniques

Thyroid function test for thyroid hormone levels and thyroid stimulating hormone levels,Thyroid autoantibodies, Radioiodine uptake test, Isotope scan, Full blood count

Treatment and Prevention

Thyroid hormone replacement with Levothyroxine