Hypothyroidism

Adult Hypothyroidism is a state, condition or circumstance in which the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland is situated in the front of the neck just below the voice box (larynx). It releases hormones that control metabolism. Hypothyroidism, or under active thyroid, is more ordinary and widespread in women and people over the age of 50.

Adult Hypothyroidism Causes, Incidence, and Risk Factors

The most ordinary and widespread cause of adult hypothyroidism is thyroiditis. Irritation and swelling harm the thyroid gland cells. Reasons for this problem consist of an attack of the thyroid gland by the immune system, cold or other respiratory infection, pregnancy when it is frequently called postpartum thyroiditis.Other reasons for adult hypothyroidism may consist of, radiation care managements to the neck or brain, certain drugs, radioactive iodine used to treat an overactive thyroid gland, congenital or birth defects, Sheehan syndrome, surgical removal of a piece or even all of the thyroid gland, a state, condition or circumstance that might occur in a woman who bleeds severely during pregnancy or childbirth and causes the destruction of the pituitary gland care management.

Adult Hypothyroidism Signs and Tests

A complete physical exam might disclose a small thyroid gland, even though from time to time the gland is really normal and even enlarged. The examination might also reveal coarse features of the face, irritation of the arms and legs, brittle nails, pale or dry skin, which might be cool to the touch, thin and brittle hair. Lab tests to determine thyroid function consist of; the TSH test and T4 test. Other tests that might be completed are complete blood count, prolactin, liver enzymes, cholesterol levels, and sodium.

Adult Hypothyroidism Care Management

While you are on thyroid replacement therapy, tell Dr. Miller if you have any symptoms, like rapid weight loss, restlessness palpitations, shakiness or sweating. Myxedema coma is a medical emergency occurring when your body’s level of thyroid hormones gets too low. It is treated with intravenous thyroid hormone replacement and steroid prescription medications. Some patients might require supportive therapy like fluid replacement, breathing assistance, oxygen, and intensive-care nursing management.

Adult Hypothyroidusm Expectations for Prognosis

In most cases, thyroid levels return to normal with proper care management. However, you must take thyroid hormone replacement for the rest of your life. Myxedema coma may result in death.

Possible Hypothyroid Complications

Myxedema coma, the most severe form of adult hypothyroidism, is rare. It might be caused by an infection, illness, exposure to cold, or certain prescription medications in people with untreated hypothyroidism.Symptoms and signs of myxedema coma consist of, below normal temperature, decreased breathing, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, unresponsiveness. Other complications are heart disease, increased risk of infection, infertility, miscarriage. People with untreated hypothyroidism are at increased risk for, Giving birth to a baby with birth defects, heart disease due to higher levels of LDL cholesterol, heart failure. Hyperthyroidism sufferers that are treated with too much thyroid hormone are at risk for angina or heart attack, including osteoporosis, which is a thinning of the bones and should make an appointment to see Dr. Miller as soon as possible see if you are suffering from or can have a reversal in adult hypothyroidism.