Medical World
Hypothyroidism

Share |

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces less than the normal amount of thyroid hormones, T3 and T4. The result is the “slowing down”of many bodily functions. Although hypothyroidism may be temporary, it usually is a permanent condition. Studies have shown that nearly 25 million suffer from the disease, with half remaining undiagnosed.

The most common cause is autoimmune in nature, specifically Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Other causes include: radioactive iodine treatment, thyroid operation, medications, and spontaneous onset.

In its earliest stage, hypothyroidism may cause few symptoms, since the body has the ability to partially compensate for a failing thyroid gland by increasing the stimulation to it, much like pressing down on the accelerator when climbing a hill, to keep the car going the same speed. However, as thyroid hormone production decreases, and the body’s metabolism slows, a variety of symptoms may result such as: fatigue, drowsiness, forgetfulness, constipation, weight gain, and irregular menstrual flow.

Hypothyroidism is diagnosed by your endocrinologist, who along with a physical exam looking for clinical evidence of hypothyroidism, will perform diagnostic lab tests such as: TSH, free T4, and thyroid antibodies.

Once detected, hypothyroidism is treated with a single daily dose of thyroid hormone given as a tablet. Thyroid hormone acts slowly in the body, so it can take several months after treatment is started, to notice improvement in symptoms. Since most cases of hypothyroidism are permanent, and often progressive, it is usually necessary to treat this condition throughout one’s lifetime. Periodic monitoring of TSH levels, and clinical status, are necessary to ensure that the proper dose is being given, since medication doses may have to be adjusted from time to time. It is extremely important that women planning to become pregnant are kept well adjusted, since hypothyroidism can affect the development of the baby.

Appropriate management of hypothyroidism requires continued care by a physician experienced in the treatment of this condition.

Dr. Nicholas Kaloudis is a highly regarded, board certified endocrinologist. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine and owner of EndoHealthMD, in Manhasset, NY. His center provides comprehensive specialty care using current evidence-based practices, and the latest advances in medical aesthetics. He holds an appointment as Associate Clinical Professor at North Shore University in Manhasset. He has received numerous awards, and he has published articles in the field of Endocrinology. For more information and a listing of services provided call: 516 365 1150.
©2012 NEOCORP MEDIA





web stats tracker