What is Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of thyroid hormones synthesized by thyroid gland . Thus it is “HYPO” or less functioning of thyroid gland. T4 or Thyroxine and T3 or triiodothyronine are important hormones produced by thyroid gland. These are hormones are very important regulator of many key functions of human body.

Symptoms

Hypothyroidism may not cause any symptoms in the early stages or when deficiency of hormones is mild. While long standing hypothyroidism or more severe deficiency is more often with symptoms .
The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism vary, depending on the severity of the hormone deficiency. Problems tend to develop slowly, often over a number of years.

Hypothyroidism signs and symptoms may include:

  • Fatigue
  • Increased sensitivity to cold
  • Constipation
  • Dry skin
  • Weight gain
  • Puffy face
  • Hoarseness
  • Muscle weakness
  • Elevated blood cholesterol level
  • Muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness
  • Pain, stiffness or swelling in your joints
  • Heavier than normal or irregular menstrual periods
  • Thinning hair
  • Slowed heart rate
  • Depression
  • Impaired memory
  • Swelling in front of neck due to enlarged thyroid gland
Hypothyroidism

Why Hypothyroidism :

Many conditions can lead to deficiency of thyroid hormones. It may be due to auto immune injury to gland or may be due to infections. In newborn and infants, it may be due to absence of thyroid gland . It is more common in females and family history is also important . In few patients , hypothyroidism is due to pituitary gland diseases .

Diagnosis :

Thyroid gland produces T4 and T3 hormones . Thyroid gland function is further regulated by pituitary gland through a hormone known as TSH. When T4 & T3 production goes down, it is sensed by pituitary and this gland now releases more TSH . Thus low T4, T3 and high TSH is hallmark of Hypothyroidism. While in less common pituitary origin hypothyroidism, T4,T3 and TSH all are low.

What we do at TOTALL for hypothyroidism :

TOTALL Diabetes Hormone Institute is dedicated to management of Hypothyroidism with a team of Endocrinologists who are expert in managing thyroid diseases. At TOTALL, all facilities to investigate and treat thyroid problems are available. TOTALL has app based education for thyroid disease management as well. Dr Sunil M Jain, Endocrinologist and Thyroid expert is chief consultant at TOATLL.

Hypothyroidism is a disease which can be managed very successfully if few rules are followed .