Hypothyroidism Symptoms
Understanding Hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland synthesizes triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) hormones. If the gland does not produce these hormones adequately, hypothyroidism develops. An under active thyroid gland results in an insufficient production of the thyroid hormones; thus giving rise to a host of symptoms.
Hypothyroidism Symptoms
Clinically, hypothyroidism is seen as:
Weight gain: the thyroid regulates metabolic activity; hence, reduced thyroid functioning results in weight gain due to a slowing down of the metabolic rate.
Depression: an imbalance in the hormone levels produces mood swings and depression.
Constipation: develops due to slow metabolism. Bloating and excessive flatulence are accompanying features.
Hair loss: reduced secretion of thyroid hormones leads to severe hair loss
High cholesterol: decreased metabolic activity results in elevated levels of cholesterol and plaque deposits.
Decreased libido: hypothyroidism reduces the sex drive.
Increased sensitivity to cold is a significant symptom
Pale and dry skin
Low blood pressure
Fatigue
Swollen hands and puffy face
Reduced memory and recall capacity, hoarseness of voice and slurred speech are other important hypothyroidism symptoms.
Diagnosing Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is quite prevalent in older women; hence, endocrinologists advise older women to get screened for hypothyroidism during their annual investigations and examinations.
Pregnant women are also advised to test for hypothyroidism.
When you develop the various symptoms associated with this syndrome complex, the doctor will ask you to get a few diagnostic tests done.
Diagnosis of hypothyroidism is established through TSH, T3, and T4 levels in the serum. Low levels of thyroxine and elevated levels of TSH are a sign of an underactive thyroid. This occurs because the pituitary releases large quantities of TSH in to encourage the thyroid to produce more thyroid hormones.
Furthermore, TSH tests have an important part to play in the management of hypothyroidism symptoms. They help the physician decide on the correct dose of medication, both, while starting the treatment and after an interval of time.
TSH tests also help diagnose subclinical hypothyroidism, a condition that is asymptomatic. Investigations for subclinical hypothyroidism show normal levels of thyroxine and triiodothyronine, but elevated levels of TSH.
Treatment of Hypothyroidism Symptoms
The treatment regimen for hypothyroidism comprises of administering synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine everyday. This drug reinstates normal hormone levels, and thus ameliorates the hypothyroidism symptoms.
2 weeks after commencing the treatment, one notices a reduction in the symptoms, particularly fatigue and exhaustion. Gradually, the drug decreases weight, fights hair loss and brings cholesterol levels to normal. Levothyroxine needs to be taken lifelong; however, the dosage changes over a period of time, so regular follow ups and hormone assessments are crucial.
An equally important aspect of hypothyroidism management is making lifestyle changes. It is very vital that you follow a healthy diet and eliminate processed foods. Regular exercise to boost metabolic activity is very important. Doctors recommend exercising thrice a week. Whats more, coping up with stress effectively helps prevent exacerbations.