Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce sufficient quantity of hormones for body’s normal functioning.
Hypothyroidism is of three types depending upon the organ of its origin primary, secondary and tertiary.
Primary hypothyroidism originates from thyroid gland, secondary hypothyroidism originates from pituitary gland and tertiary hypothyroidism originates from the hypothalamus.
Failure to produce thyroid hormone causes hypothyroidism.
Autoimmune disease (Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis) is the most common cause of hypothyroidism.
Other causes include –
Thyroid surgery
Radiation therapy
Treatment for hyperthyroidism
Congenital disease (absent or defective thyroid gland)
During or after pregnancy due to production of auto antibodies
Medications like (lithium) used for the treatment of bipolar disorder.
Deficiency of stimulating hormone from pituitary gland or hypothalamus
Age above 50 years in women, iodine deficiency and exposure to Iodine-131 are risk factors for hypothyroidism. Family history of auto immune disease, radiation therapy for neck or chest, treatment with radioactive iodine or anti-thyroid medications and thyroid surgery are additional risk factors for hypothyroidism.
Most of the time the early symptoms can be missed or may even be attributed to getting older. However, as the condition progresses the signs and symptoms become more prominent. The symptoms may include:-
Levorotatory forms of thyroxine (L- T4) and triiodothyronine (L-T3) are used for the treatment of hypothyroidism. The drugs are available in animal derived and in synthetic form and both are used in treatment.
It is important to discuss the diet and other medication taken along with the medications for hypothyroidism as they may interfere with the absorption of medicines.
If there are any symptoms or risk factors for hypothyroidism then it is better to see the doctor. In case of risk factors repeated periodic testing is required.
