Hypothyroidism is a condition that refers to the insufficient production of thyroid hormones. It has plagued thousands of millions of people worldwide. Understanding the causes of this disorder and the management options would provide an opportunity for treatment that would improve the quality of life.
What Causes Hypothyroidism?
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is referred to as the most prevalent cause of autoimmune disorder :whereby the body’s immune system attacks thyroid tissues with resultant inability to manufacture sufficient hormones.
Thyrid surgical: intervention can reduce hormone levels, resulting in hypothyroidism.
Destruction of the thyroid gland: as a consequence of radiation therapy, commonly used in the treatment of cancers in the head and neck.
Use of certain medications: like lithium and amiodarone, could affect the thyroid functionality leading to hypothyroidism.
Theoretically, the insufficiency of iodine in daily meals can exaggerate the weakness of the thyroid gland.Some born individuals either have a non-functional or absent thyroid gland. Pituitary disorder: Being a control centre for the entry secreted by thyroid stimulating hormones (TSH), the pituitary may be insufficient to secrete TSH and, hence, produce hypothyroidism. The pituitary may weaken with age and and so may the thyroid function leading to hypothyroidism as such.
The Symptoms Associated with Hypothyroidism
The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism may be classified according to several features, from the most common one to the least common. They are as follows:
Fatigue or weakness Weight gain Cold intolerance Dryness of skin and hair Constipation Depression Memory problems Irregularities of menstrual cycles
Diagnosing Hypothyroidism
Most of the times, a qualified healthcare professional diagnoses hypothyroidism using blood tests that measure levels of TSH and thyroxine (T4). Elevated TSH levels, coupled with low T4 levels, suggest an underactive thyroid.
Alternatives of Treatment
Thyroid Hormone Therapy: The recommended treatment for hypothyroidism consists of replacement with synthetic thyroid hormone, usually levothyroxine (Synthroid), on a daily basis. The medication helps to restore normal levels and thereby lessen symptoms.
Regular Monitoring: Patients need to undergo a blood test regularly to check hormone levels and adjust the dose of medication.
Diet: A balanced diet that is high in iodine is a good way to support overall thyroid function; while not a substitute for treatment, it can help. Good sources of iodine include seafood, dairy, and iodized salt. Be very careful with iodine and keep it in moderation, as high levels can destroy thyroid function.
Treating the Underlying Condition: If secondary hypothyroidism occurs as a consequence of a certain condition (as an autoimmunological disease), treating that condition may resuscitate normal thyroid function.
Other: Regular exercises, applied stress management strategies, along with sufficient rest, can be used to improve the well-being of the individual and help manage symptoms.
Conclusion
Hypothyroidism is not a disease that cannot be treated; with the right diagnosis and treatment, someone would be able to manage it. Its symptoms may seem common to you, so if you suspect you have some form of hypothyroidism, consult your doctor in order to rule out the disease and what therapeutic alternatives are available. Given proper treatment, it is said that they can still live healthy and engaging lives.
