Hypothyroidism
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism? Learn about the different types, causes, and the most effective treatments.
Symptoms and Causes
Hypothyroidism is a condition that disrupts the proper functioning of the body's organs due to reduced thyroid hormone production. The thyroid gland produces T3 and T4 hormones, which are regulated by TSH, a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. TSH (thyrotropin) controls the synthesis of T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine), which in turn regulate the body's metabolic reactions. When the thyroid is underactive, organ activity decreases, leading to more severe conditions affecting the metabolic, cardiovascular, neurological, or digestive systems.
The condition is classified into three different types based on its origin:
- Primary hypothyroidism: The most common type, caused by a thyroid gland disorder. When it results from an autoimmune condition, it is known as Hashimoto's hypothyroidism.
- Secondary hypothyroidism: Occurs when the pituitary gland does not produce thyrotropin, the hormone that stimulates the thyroid to generate its own hormones.
- Tertiary hypothyroidism: Caused by the hypothalamus failing to secrete the hormone that stimulates the pituitary gland. This is the rarest form.
In many cases, hypothyroidism does not present symptoms in its early stages, making diagnosis possible only after it has already started causing other health issues. With proper treatment, affected individuals can lead normal lives.
Symptoms
Hypothyroidism symptoms develop gradually over time. In addition to those caused by organ dysfunction, the most common symptoms include:
- Apathy and lack of motivation for daily activities.
- Persistent fatigue with no apparent cause.
- Dry and rough skin.
- Dry, brittle, and thinning hair.
- Weight gain.
- Cold intolerance.
- Constipation.
- In severe cases, bradycardia or respiratory failure.
Causes
In most cases, hypothyroidism results from improper thyroid function. It is often caused by Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an inflammation triggered by the immune system mistakenly attacking the thyroid gland. However, the condition may also be caused by thyroid surgery, radiation therapy, pituitary gland disorders, or certain medications containing lithium.
Risk Factors
Although hypothyroidism can affect anyone, certain factors increase the risk of developing it:
- More common in women.
- Higher likelihood after age 40 or 50.
- Presence of an autoimmune disease: Conditions like lupus, type 1 diabetes, or celiac disease can trigger hypothyroidism.
- Previous thyroid surgery.
- Radiation exposure to the chest or neck.
Complications
If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to other health complications, including:
- Goiter: Enlargement of the thyroid gland, which can cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing.
- Peripheral neuropathy: Dysfunction of the nerves, leading to impaired communication between the brain and the rest of the body.
- Infertility: Low thyroid hormone levels can reduce egg production or prevent ovulation, decreasing pregnancy chances and increasing the risk of miscarriage.
- Heart problems: Hypothyroidism can lead to increased cholesterol production, raising the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Prevention
There is no guaranteed way to prevent hypothyroidism, but certain measures may help reduce the risk:
- Consuming iodine-rich foods to promote hormone production and antioxidant-rich foods to help protect the thyroid.
- Avoiding certain medications that may interfere with normal thyroid function whenever possible.
Which doctor treats hypothyroidism?
An endocrinologist is the specialist responsible for diagnosing and treating hypothyroidism.
Diagnosis
Hypothyroidism is primarily diagnosed through blood tests. The earliest indicator is an increase in TSH levels, even before symptoms appear. As the condition progresses, T3 and T4 hormone levels decrease.
To assess the thyroid gland’s condition, doctors may request an ultrasound or thyroid scan.
Treatment
The treatment for hypothyroidism consists of supplementing the body with the hormones it cannot produce on its own through medication. Since this is a chronic condition, patients must take these medications for life. However, with proper adherence to medical recommendations, individuals with hypothyroidism can live normal, unrestricted lives.
