Understanding Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism, also called underactive thyroid disease, is a common endocrine disorder where the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormones. These hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), are essential for maintaining the body’s metabolism, which controls various functions such as energy production and body temperature regulation.
Without enough thyroid hormones, many of the body’s functions slow down. Hypothyroidism can have a profound impact on overall health and well-being. The condition affects multiple organ systems and can lead to symptoms that decrease the quality of life. Hypothyroidism can be potentially deadly in severe cases if left untreated.
Signs and Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Recognising the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism can be challenging as they are often subtle and gradual. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue: Patients would experience persistent weariness even after sleeping or taking breaks and an overwhelming feeling of exhaustion that can occur suddenly and without apparent cause.
- Weight Gain: The body burns fewer calories for energy than it normally would, which may lead to weight accumulation.
- Depression: Hormonal imbalances can significantly impact neurotransmitter function, leading to feelings of sadness or hopelessness that are disproportionate to one’s circumstances. Inability to Tolerate Cold Temperatures: Patients suffering from hypothyroidism may have a decreased basal metabolic rate, which means that less heat is generated within the body, making patients more sensitive to cold temperatures.
- Dry, Coarse Skin and Hair: Thyroid hormones help regulate skin cell renewal. Low levels cause slower turnover, leading to dry, coarse skin and hair. Some patients may also notice their hair becoming finer, thinner, and more brittle.
- Numbness and Tingling in Hands: This symptom, often a result of nerve compression, can occur because hypothyroidism can lead to fluid retention, swelling of tissues, and increased pressure on peripheral nerves.
- Constipation: Reduced thyroid hormone levels slow down many body systems, including the digestive process, leading to constipation.
- Muscle Weakness and Soreness: Hypothyroidism can cause muscle weakness and joint stiffness, as metabolism slows, reducing energy production in muscle cells.
- Decreased Sexual Interest: Low levels of thyroid hormone can affect libido by directly impacting sex hormone levels and mood.
Diagnosing Hypothyroidism
Seriousness of hypothyroidism
Diagnosing Hypothyroidism
If you experience some of the aforementioned symptoms, it is advisable to consult an Endocrinologist. Endocrinologists specialise in hormone-related disorders and can provide an expert diagnosis. At Harmony Thyroid, Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre, we usually use a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory testing to diagnose hypothyroidism:
- Medical History and Symptoms Review: Your Endocrinologist will discuss your symptoms and check for risk factors and family history.
- Physical Exam: This may include checking your thyroid gland for abnormalities such as goitre (enlarged thyroid gland).
- Blood Tests: The most definitive way to diagnose hypothyroidism is through blood tests that measure thyroid hormone and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels.
- Imaging Studies: Imaging can play a supportive role in diagnosing hypothyroidism, particularly when it is necessary to visualise the thyroid gland to assess its size, shape, and to identify any abnormalities that might suggest a cause for thyroid dysfunction.
Seriousness of hypothyroidism
Understanding the seriousness of hypothyroidism is paramount for the effective management and prevention of medical complications. Ignoring symptoms of hypothyroidism may result in the following outcomes:
- Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases: Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to elevated cholesterol levels, which increase the risk of heart disease. Additionally, hypothyroidism can cause slowed heart rate and weakened heart muscle, contributing to the risk of heart failure.
- Mental Health Effects: Patients with hypothyroidism often experience mood disorders such as depression and reduced cognitive function. The decreased production of thyroid hormones can significantly impact brain chemistry and emotional well-being.
- Reduced Quality of Life: Chronic symptoms like lethargy, weight gain, and a slowed physical and mental response can diminish quality of life, making daily activities challenging and less enjoyable.
- Complications if Left Untreated: Severe untreated hypothyroidism can lead to life-threatening conditions such as myxedema coma, an extreme form of hypothyroidism that requires immediate medical intervention.
Treatment Options for Hypothyroidism
Treatment for hypothyroidism aims to replace the missing thyroid hormones and help manage the symptoms:
- Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy: The most common and effective Hypothyroidism treatment in Singapore involves taking levothyroxine, a synthetic form of thyroid hormone. This medication is taken daily and helps normalise body functions.
- Dietary Changes: Some adjustments in diet can also help manage symptoms, such as increasing your fibre intake to relieve constipation or consuming iodine-rich foods to support thyroid health.
- Regular Monitoring: Once treatment starts, your doctor will regularly check your TSH levels to adjust the medication dosage as needed, ensuring that you are receiving the appropriate level.
If you are experiencing symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold, you can book a consultation with Dr Vikram Sonawane, an experienced Endocrinologist and the Medical Director of Harmony Thyroid, Endocrinology and Diabetes Centre, for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Early detection and treatment can improve your quality of life significantly. Remember, hypothyroidism is a common condition and, with treatment, you can maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
References:
- Cleveland Clinic. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) symptoms & more | Cleveland clinic. Cleveland Clinic. Published April 19, 2020. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12120-hypothyroidism
- Chaker L, Bianco AC, Jonklaas J, Peeters RP. Hypothyroidism. The Lancet. 2017;390(10101):1550-1562. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(17)30703-1
