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Hypothyroidism

Description

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) occurs when there is not enough thyroid hormone in our bodies. This hormone carries out several body functions involving our metabolism, heart, bones and cholesterol. This is why hypothyroidism may present with a wide variety of symptoms. 

Untreated hypothyroidism can cause various health problems such as, joint pain, obesity, heart disease and infertility problems. 

Causes
Hypothyroidism may occur due to the following reasons:
  • The thyroid gland may become inflamed, this is known as thyroiditis
  • Autoimmune disease affecting the thyroid, this is called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
  • Some viral infections may also cause hypothyroidism.
  • Certain medications such as lithium, interleukin-2, etc.
  • As a side effect of radiation therapy.
  • Iodine deficiency in your diet.
  • Disorder of the pituitary or hypothalamus.
  • Pregnancy may sometimes result in an inflamed thyroid gland.
Risk factors
The following factors may increase the risk of hypothyroidism:
  • People who are asian or caucasian are at a higher risk
  • People who have Bipolar disorder, Down Syndrome, or Turner syndrome are also at a greater risk.
  • If you have any other autoimmune disorder, the risk increases.
Symptoms

The following symptoms may occur:

  • Weight gain.
  • Skin that is dry.
  • Hair fall, or thinning of the hair along with dryness.
  • A swelling in the neck, due to a swollen thyroid gland. This is called a goiter.
  • Feeling tired and lethargic.
  • Passing stool less than 3 times in a week (constipation)
  • Changes in heart rate (it tends to get slower than normal).
  • Feeling depressed.
Diagnosis

In order to make a diagnosis, your doctor will need:

  • A detailed history of your symptoms.
  • Blood tests to measure the thyroid levels in your body (T4 and TSH levels).
Management
  • For treatment, your doctor may prescribe medication containing a man-made version of the thyroid hormone.
  • It is important to keep checking the thyroid levels through blood tests. Your doctor can recommend how often you need to get your blood tests done.
When to consult a doctor?

A doctor should be consulted if the prescribed treatment is not effective, and your symptoms are not improving even after taking your medicines regularly.

Available Medicine for Hypothyroidism

Thyroxine

Rs.217.32

GlaxoSmithKline

Thyronorm 50mcg

Rs.232.53

Abbott Laboratories

Thyronorm 125mcg

Rs.367.27

Abbott Laboratories

Thyronorm 25mcg

Rs.200

Abbott Laboratories

Thyronorm 50mcg

Rs.232.53

Abbott Laboratories