$Unique_ID{BRK00977}
$Pretitle{Endocrine Glands and Metabolism}
$Title{A List of Symptoms for Hypothyroidism}
$Subject{thyroid hypothyroidism diagnosis}
$Volume{C-22}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


A List of Symptoms for Hypothyroidism


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QUESTION:  You recently did a nice summary of symptoms and so forth on
hyperthyroidism.  Could you please do the same for hypothyroidism?  I could
use a list of symptoms and some general history on the subject.  Thank you.

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ANSWER:  I suppose for completeness sake, it is only fair that we deal with
the other side of thyroid activity, the reactions to thyroid deficiency or too
little thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism).  The most common form of this
disease, also known as primary hypothyroidism is probably an autoimmune
disease, and frequently follows an episode of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, which
is an inflammation of the thyroid, also thought to be caused by autoimmune
factors.  The disease leaves the thyroid gland shrunken and scarred with
little ability to function normally.  The second most common cause of thyroid
deficiency follows therapy for hyperthyroidism.  When an overactive thyroid is
treated with by surgery or radiation therapy, the result may be a bit more
than desired, and with production of thyroid hormone lowered below normal
levels.  The symptoms and signs of low thyroid activity may begin gradually
and are often unnoticed in the early stages.  The skin becomes coarse and dry,
scaly and thick.  Hair loss is noticed as the hair is affected in a manner
similar to the skin, and it too becomes coarse and dry.  Patients become
forgetful, with gradual changes in their personality as the intellect becomes
impaired.  Their facial expression becomes dull, enhanced by the swelling and
puffiness that commonly occurs around the eyes.  While body temperature is
reduced, women may notice an increase in their menstrual flow.  The pulse is
generally slower than normal, and reflexes are altered.  Many patients
complain of constipation, which may become quite severe.  The condition is
frequently referred to as myxedema, and a condition known as myxedema coma,
while rare in warm climates, can occur in the colder regions.  A variety of
laboratory tests are available to help make an accurate diagnosis and to
evaluate the causes for the diminished thyroid function.  Once the diagnosis
has been made, the treatment consists of replacing thyroid hormone, often
using synthetic preparations in sufficient quantities to assure normal
function.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
