Hypothyroidism

How is it produced?

hypothyroidism is the state of hypofunction of the organism due to lack of the effects of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). The frequency of this disease increases with age, being more prevalent in the elderly and in women. The most common cause is the surgical removal of the thyroid or its suppression by radioactive iodine in cases of treatment of hyperthyroidism with this substance. Other Causes are:

• Idiopathic primary hypothyroidism: due to antibodies in the blood directed against the thyroid gland; can be associated with other autoimmune processes (antibodies against different tissues of the body)
• Lack of the thyroid gland, with which hormones cannot be synthesized.
• Chronic use of certain drugs, such as amiodarone, iodine, and lithium.
• Due to alteration of the pituitary gland, which does not make the hormone that stimulates the thyroid to make hormones.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism

The manifestations due to hypothyroidism affect different tissues and systems of our body:

• gastrointestinal manifestations constipation, loss of appetite, weight gain.
• respiratory manifestations: choking sensation, hoarse voice.
• Neuromuscular manifestations: fatigue, lethargy, stiffness, muscle contracture.
• Cutaneous manifestations: intolerance to cold, hair loss, dry and rough skin, absence of hair on the tail of the eyebrows, brittle nails.
• Neuropsychiatric manifestations: progressive deterioration of intellectual and motor activity, drowsiness, dullness, dementia, depression.
• Others: menstrual disturbances, impotence.

Diagnosis

The suspicion of hyperthyroidism based on the symptoms of hypoactivity of different body systems will be followed by a blood test with determination of thyroid hormones, T3, T4 and TSH. The hormonal alteration characteristic of hyperthyroidism is an increase in TSH and a decrease or absence of T3 and T4. To find out if there is an immune disorder, a study of thyroid antibodies. Ultrasound of the thyroid gland and thyroid scintigraphy are useful to evaluate the size of the thyroid and see its characteristics, and can indicate the origin of hypothyroidism.

Treatment

Treatment includes replacement of the missing thyroid hormones. This treatment consists of administering levothyroxine. You must be very strict about the dose to take, to avoid excess thyroid hormone in the blood, since it can lead to hyperthyroidism.

Precautionary measures

The most important thing is to ensure sufficient dietary iodine intake (150 mg / day). In people taking drugs that can alter thyroid hormones, such as amiodarone or lithium treatment, thyroid hormone control is recommended.