Hypothyroidism is a common condition that occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones required by the body. The hormones play a major role in the metabolic regulation of the body, energy levels, temperature, and the overall functioning of organs. When the levels of thyroid hormones drop significantly, the body functions begin to slow down, leading to numerous symptoms and medical complications.
In this article, we will be talking about the cause of hypothyroidism, the common symptoms, diagnosis, and management by medication, lifestyle changes, and follow-up appointments. We will also briefly discuss the medications, which are most commonly used in treating this disease.
What Is Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, is when the thyroid gland, located in the front of the neck, fails to produce enough hormones like thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). They are needed to maintain the body’s metabolism, heart, digestion, and brain growth.
The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland and works in tandem with the pituitary gland. When thyroid hormone levels are low, the pituitary gland releases extra amounts of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) to stimulate the production of hormone. If the thyroid fails to respond appropriately, hypothyroidism ensues.
To correct the hormone deficiency and restore normal function, treatment often involves thyroid hormone replacement. In many cases, eltroxin 50 mcg tablet is prescribed to help maintain stable hormone levels and support the body’s essential metabolic processes.
Causes of Hypothyroidism
There are numerous reasons that the thyroid may fail to function properly. Some of the most frequent of these are:
1. Autoimmune Disease (Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis)
This is the most common reason for hypothyroidism. In Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, the immune system of the body mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, damaging its ability to produce hormones.
2. Iodine Deficiency
Iodine is required to create thyroid hormones. Deficiency, although rare in countries where iodised salt is widely used, can lead to an underactive thyroid.
3. Thyroid Surgery
Removal of all or part of the thyroid gland can cause reduced hormone output, especially if not replaced with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
4. Radiation Therapy
Radiation for cancers of the head and neck can damage the thyroid gland, making it non-functional.
5. Medications
Certain medications like lithium or amiodarone may disrupt thyroid hormone production.
6. Congenital Hypothyroidism
Some babies are born with an underdeveloped or missing thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism at birth.
7. Pituitary Gland Disorders
If the pituitary gland fails to secrete sufficient TSH, the thyroid gland may not be stimulated to secrete hormones effectively.
8. Postpartum Thyroiditis
Some women develop thyroid disease within a year after giving birth. It can start with hyperthyroidism and later develop into hypothyroidism.
Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
The signs and symptoms are also subtle at first but tend to worsen with time. They are as follows:
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Unexplained weight gain
- Dryness of skin and brittle nails
- Depression or low mood
- Cold intolerance
- Constipation
- Swelling of face
- Slowing of heart rate
- Hoarseness
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Memory lapses or brain fog
- Thinning hair or baldness
Hypothyroid children can also show delayed growth and development problems if left unchecked early.
How is Hypothyroidism Diagnosed?
Hypothyroidism diagnosis typically involves blood tests:
- TSH Test: A high TSH level typically indicates hypothyroidism.
- Free T4 Test: Measures the actual concentration of thyroid hormone in the bloodstream.
- Thyroid Antibody Tests: Can detect autoimmune thyroiditis like Hashimoto’s disease.
Sometimes, imaging tests or an ultrasound are performed to examine the structure of the thyroid gland.
Management and Treatment
The primary treatment of hypothyroidism is replacement therapy with thyroid hormone. This replaces hormones to normal and regulates symptoms effectively.
1. Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy
Two of the most commonly prescribed drugs utilized are:
Eltroxin 50 mcg Tablet
This tablet contains levothyroxine sodium, a man-made version of the T4 hormone. It is utilized to substitute or supplement the body’s own production from the thyroid gland and to control the metabolic rate and energy. Eltroxin is administered once per day on an empty stomach and must have blood levels checked from time to time to correct the dosage.
Thyroxinol 50 Tablet
This Tablet contains levothyroxine and is equivalent to Eltroxin. It is used in patients with mild to moderate hypothyroidism and is meant to restore hormone levels to normal. This eases symptoms like weakness, intolerance to cold, and mood changes.
Regular use may take many weeks before symptoms improve. The appropriate dose for each patient depends on TSH values, age, weight, and medical condition.
2. Monitoring
Regular blood checks every 6-12 weeks initially to maintain hormone levels within the normal range. Once stabilised, tests may be required every 6-12 months.
3. Implications for Diet and Lifestyle
Although drugs are the primary treatment, some aspects of lifestyle can support thyroid function:
- Adequate Iodine Intake: Augment diet with iodine-rich foods like milk, eggs, and iodised salt.
- Minimize Goitrogens: Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and soy can prevent thyroid function from occurring if consumed in large quantities. Cooking reduces this effect.
- Balanced Diet: Eat foods containing selenium, zinc, and vitamin D to support thyroid function.
- Regular Exercise: Mild to moderate exercise can combat fatigue and maintain healthy weight.
- Quality Sleep: Sleep gives a boost to energy levels and maintains hormone balance.
4. Stress Management
Stress can worsen thyroid problems by disrupting hormone secretion. Stress is alleviated through the practice of mindfulness, yoga, and regulated breathing.
5. Untreated Hypothyroidism Complications
Untreated hypothyroidism may lead to some life-threatening complications:
- Goitre: Enlargement of the thyroid gland
- Heart Disease: Secondary to high levels of LDL cholesterol
- Infertility: The endocrine imbalance may cause ovulation to be disrupted
- Myxedema: A severe though rare condition manifesting through deep drowsiness, cold intolerance, and even coma
- Childhood Developmental Issues: Such as intellectual impairment and retarded growth
Conclusion
Hypothyroidism can be treated if diagnosed early and treated properly. Autoimmune illnesses, lack of iodine, surgery, and drugs are some of the frequent reasons. Fatigue, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold are some of the symptoms that affect daily activity but tend to reverse in response to proper therapy.
Drugs such as eltroxin 50 mcg tablet and thyroxinol 50 Tablet work well to replace thyroid hormones and improve quality of life. Coupled with regular checks and smart lifestyle choices, hypothyroid patients can lead a normal, productive life.
If you think you have hypothyroidism symptoms, see your physician right away. Prompt detection and treatment can be an enormous difference.
