Hypothyroidism (Low Thyroid Hormone)
Description
A condition of low thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck. Thyroid hormone helps control metabolism. Low thyroid hormone is caused by abnormalities of the thyroid gland, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus. Low thyroid hormone can affect all bodily functions and if severe can cause coma (myxedema) and death.
Symptoms
Cold intolerance, fatigue, abnormal menstrual cycles, unexplained weight gain, depression, thin and brittle hair, hoarseness, thickening skin, leg swelling, confusion, lethargy, coma.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests will be done to determine the cause of the low thyroid hormone.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- UA
- EKG
- CT Scan
Treatment
The goal of therapy is replacement of thyroid hormone. This can usually be done orally, but severe hypothyroidism requires intravenous treatment. Myxedema coma, the most dangerous form of the disease, requires intravenous thyroid replacement, steroids, and other appropriate life saving procedures. For more information contact the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service at http://www.endocrine.niddk.nih.gov or call (888)828-0904.
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I went in a few years ago and was diagnosed with hypothroidism. Next time I went back, I was told that the range of levels had been raised? and now I was no longer considered hypothroid. Odd. Who lowers and raises these ranges these days?