HYPOTHYROIDISM

Hypothyroidism is when your thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones. Some causes of this include insufficient iodine in the diet, an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto's thyroiditis, previous treatment with radioactive iodine, injury to the hypothalamus or anterior pituitary gland, certain medications, previous thyroid surgery or lack of a functioning thyroid at birth. Diagnosis is confirmed using blood tests measuring thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine levels.
Common symptoms associated with hypothyroidism include fatigue, weakness, weight gain or trouble losing weight despite reduced food intake, coarse, dry hair and skin, sensitivity to cold, muscle cramps and aches, constipation, depression, irritability, memory loss, abnormal menstrual cycles and decreased libido. Severe cases of hypothyroidism may have jaundice, slowed speech and an increase in tongue size.
Standard treatment for hypothyroidism involves daily use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine. This medication restores adequate hormone levels reversing the symptoms of hypothyroidism. Treatment is usually lifelong, but you will need monitoring of your TSH to ensure proper dosage of the medication. After initial treatment you will probably have a level checked after 2-3 months and repeated as needed until stable. Once levels stabilize monitoring can be done on a yearly basis.Generally this medication should be taken on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes prior to breakfast. Some medications such as iron supplements, calcium supplements, cholestyramine and antacids can interfere with your ability to absorb levothyroxine so should not be taken at the same time.
Hypothyroidism may be prevented in the general population by adding iodine to commonly used foods, for example iodized salt. Screening for hypothyroidism is performed in newborns in many countries. Early identification can prevent many developmental delays that may occur because of this condition if it is left untreated.