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Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not generate enough hormones. There may be no obvious signs in the early stages of hypothyroidism. When hypothyroidism is left untreated, it can lead to various types of health problems, that includes obesity, joint pain, infertility, and heart disease. The thyroid gland produces two types of hormones thyroxine T4 and triiodothyronine T3. There are various tests available for testing the conditions of the thyroid gland in order to detect hypothyroidism.
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Keyterms: Thyroid, Hormone, Obesity, Joint pain, Infertility, Heart disease, Hyperthyroidism, Thyroxine T4, Triiodothyronine T3
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Hypothyroidism Definition
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Hypothyroidism is a disorder in which the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormones to meet the body's needs. To put it another way, the thyroid gland becomes underactive. Hyperthyroidism is the polar opposite of hypothyroidism, in which the thyroid gland is overactive. It's crucial to remember that there's a link between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, and it's complicated in some cases, one can lead to the other.
Organs, glands, nerves, and tissues make up the human body, and they all work together to keep us healthy. A ductless endocrine gland, the thyroid secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream. There are two types of hormones produced by the thyroid gland: thyroxine T4 and triiodothyronine T3. Thyroid hormones are the combination of these two hormones. Any abnormalities in the thyroid glands or their hormones cause health problems. These hormones aid in the burning of calories and the regulation of heart rate. We'll look at the hypothyroidism hormone in this article. We'll also learn about the precautions to take if you have hypothyroidism and other health issues.
Hypothyroidism
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland in your neck that secretes hormones straight into the bloodstream. Thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) are two hormones that it produces and secretes directly into the bloodstream (T3). All cells in the body require these hormones to function properly. Thyrocalcitonin, or TCT, is a protein hormone secreted by the thyroid gland. This hormone is in charge of controlling calcium levels in the bloodstream. To keep the body fit and healthy requires a well-balanced metabolism.
There may be an imbalance in the metabolism at times. It's important to remember that a healthy metabolism necessitates a healthy thyroid hormone secretion. The passage of thyroid hormones can be disrupted from time to time. Hormones may be overproduced or underproduced as a result of this impairment. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid generates too many hormones. Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces too little or too little.
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Causes of Hypothyroidism
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Hypothyroidism can be caused by either a main or secondary cause. One of the main reasons is a thyroid condition that causes the thyroid to produce insufficient thyroid hormones. Something that causes the pituitary gland to fail, which means it can't deliver thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) to the thyroid to balance out thyroid hormones, is a secondary reason.
Causes of Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is more commonly caused by primary reasons. The most prevalent of these fundamental causes is Hashimoto's disease, which is an autoimmune disorder. This inherited illness is also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis or chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis (passed down through a family). The immune system attacks and damages the thyroid in Hashimoto's disease. The thyroid is unable to produce and release enough thyroid hormone as a result of this.
Hypothyroidism can also be caused by a number of other reasons, such as:
- Thyroiditis is a condition that affects the thyroid gland (inflammation of the thyroid).
- Hyperthyroidism treatment (radiation and surgical removal of the thyroid).
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
- Iodine shortage (a lack of iodine in your body, which the thyroid utilizes to manufacture hormones).
- Hereditary diseases (a medical condition passed down through your family).
Thyroiditis can occur after pregnancy (postpartum thyroiditis) or as a result of a viral infection in some situations.
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Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
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When the thyroid gland is underactive, it does not produce enough thyroid hormone, which causes the body's activities to slow down. As a result, it's understandable that no serious symptoms in the body are seen at first. Here are some hypothyroidism symptoms to watch out for:
- Fatigue
- Numbness and tingling sensations in your hands.
- Constipation.
- Putting on weight.
- Experiencing soreness throughout your body
- Having blood cholesterol levels
- Depression
- Don't able to bear cold Temperature
- Skin and Hair Dryness
- The decline in sexual desire.
- Having heavy and frequent menstrual cycles.
- Observe changes in your appearance (including drooping eyelids, as well as puffiness in the eyes and face).
- Your voice becomes hoarse and lower.
- Increased forgetfulness ("brain fog").
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Treatment for Hypothyroidism
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The hormone that your thyroid no longer makes is usually supplemented to treat hypothyroidism. This is normally accomplished with the assistance of medicine. One of the most commonly prescribed drugs is levothyroxine. When taken orally, this medication increases the amount of thyroid hormone produced by your body, bringing your levels back into balance.
Hypothyroidism is a treatable condition. You will, however, need to take medication for the rest of your life to balance the level of hormones in your body. In order to live a normal life one must be under the constant supervision of the doctor.
Diagnosis of Hypothyroidism
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The diagnosis of hypothyst is the most common approach to identify hypothyroidism. Blood testing for illnesses like Hashimoto's disease may be ordered by your doctor. Your physician may be able to feel an enlarged thyroid during a physicroidism can be difficult due to the similarity of the symptoms to those of other diseases. Consult your doctor if you're experiencing any of the symptoms of hypothyroidism. The thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) teal exam during a visit if it is present. CT, MRI, thyroid ultrasound, and scans to detect the activity of the thyroid gland.
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Treatment and Precautions for Hypothyroidism
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The hormone that your thyroid no longer makes is usually supplemented to treat hypothyroidism. This is usually done with the help of medicine. One of the most commonly prescribed drugs is levothyroxine. When taken orally, this medication increases the amount of thyroid hormone produced by your body, bringing your levels back into balance.
Hypothyroidism is a treatable condition. You will, however, need to take medication for the rest of your life to balance the level of hormones in your body. A person can lead a normal and healthy life with proper precautions and follow-up meetings with the healthcare practitioner in order to ensure that the treatment is working properly.
To control or lessen the symptoms, several safety precautions must be taken, including:
- To avoid bone weakening and thinning, eat a well-balanced diet that includes vitamin D-rich foods and calcium supplements.
- Walking is a good kind of exercise. Indulge in weight-loss programs to keep your weight under control.
- To avoid dehydration, drink more water and fresh fruit juice.
- Stop smoking and consuming alcoholic beverages.
- Thyroid gland function is determined by a regular hormone level test.
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Points To Remember
- T4 and T3 are the two types of hormones produced by the thyroid in order to regulate your metabolism.
- The pituitary gland, which is located below the brain in the centre of the skull, regulates the amount of thyroid hormones in the bloodstream.
- Hashimoto's illness is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in pregnant women.
- Hypothyroidism can make pregnant women feel exhausted, make it difficult to cope with cold temperatures, and cause muscular cramps.
- If you have hypothyroidism, you'll need to raise the dose of your meds while taking birth control tablets.
- If erectile dysfunction was caused directly by the hormone imbalance, treating hypothyroidism will typically help.
Previous Year Questions
- The hormone that controls the level of calcium and phosphorus in the blood is secreted by:...[AFMC 2005]
- During emergency, which one of the following hormone is important?..[UP CPMT 2000]
- Presence of glucose in urine is called
- The amino acid derivative among the following hormone is:
- Gigantism and acromegaly are due to improper functioning of:...[JIPMER 1996]
- Progesterone level falls during...[AMUEEE 2008]
- Regeneration of liver is
- Hypothetical plant hormones are...[AIIMS 2014]
- Aldosterone is secreted by:...[MU OET 2005]
- Which one is a synthetic Auxin:….[UPSEE 2018]
- Testosterone is produced by...[NEET 1993]
- The blood calcium level is lowered by the deficiency of...[NEET 2008]
- Rapid increase in the blood sugar level of a patient can be immediately reduced by...[KCET 2008]
- Choose the wrong statement among the following
- The pineal gland secretes
- Farathormone deficiency in blood causes:….[JIPMER 1995]
- The alternative form of gene is called…..[AMUEEE 2015]
- The hormone insulin is secreted by :...[JKCET 2006]
- Which is not a gonadal hormone?...[WBJEE 2007]
- Tetany is caused by...[WBJEE 2011]
Sample Questions
Ques 1. Is iodine in the diet beneficial in the treatment of hypothyroidism? (3 marks)
Ans. There is a link between hypothyroidism and iodine insufficiency. It's a necessary mineral for proper thyroid function. Iodine deficiency is the most common cause of Goitre or abnormal thyroid gland enlargement. For most people, it aids in maintaining proper iodine levels. Individuals with autoimmune thyroid illness may be more vulnerable to Iodine's effects. It means that iodine can aggravate hypothyroidism symptoms. If they are susceptible to the effects of iodine, they should seek medical advice. Diet can affect how thyroid drugs are absorbed by the body. Iodized salt and vitamins in the diet can help maintain levels.
Ques 2. Will I have the same dose of medication for hypothyroidism my entire life? (1 mark)
Ans. Your medication's dose can actually alter over time. You may need to adjust the dosage of your medicine at different times in your life in order for it to control your symptoms. This could occur as a result of factors such as weight growth or loss.
Ques 3. Can hypothyroidism be prevented? (2 marks)
Ans. Hypothyroidism is a condition that cannot be avoided. Keeping an eye out for indicators of hypothyroidism is the best approach to avoid developing a serious version of the ailment or having the symptoms have a significant influence on your life. If you're experiencing any of the symptoms of hypothyroidism, the best thing you can do is speak with your doctor.
Ques 4. Are there any foods I can eat to help my hypothyroidism? (2 marks)
Ans. You don't have to worry about your diet because most items in western diets include iodine. Iodine is a mineral that aids in the production of hormones by the thyroid gland. One theory is that if you have low thyroid hormone levels, eating foods high in iodine can help you raise them. Prescription medication from your healthcare professional is the most reliable way to raise your hormone levels.
Ques 5. What Are The Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism In Women And Children? (2 marks)
Ans. Tiredness, weight gain, a sluggish heart rate, joint and muscle discomfort, and constipation are all symptoms of hypothyroidism. Dry skin, thin, brittle hair or fingernails, a sense of pins and needles, and heavy periods or menorrhagia are all physical indicators.
Ques 6. Can hypothyroidism go away on its own? (1 mark)
Ans. Hypothyroidism symptoms don't necessarily appear in certain mild cases, or they may disappear with time. In some circumstances, hypothyroidism symptoms will go away quickly after you begin medication.
Ques 7. How do you feel when you have hypothyroidism? (1 mark)
Ans. People with hypothyroidism often feel fatigued, sluggish, and unhappy. Some of the symptoms of hypothyroidism include anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, and irritability.
Ques 8. How does hypothyroidism affect daily life? (2 marks)
Ans. Hypothyroidism can have a negative impact on your metabolism, brain processes, energy level, and bowel motions. Your symptoms may range from mild to severe, depending on how low your thyroid hormone production decreases. Symptoms including weariness, weakness, and constipation might be difficult to distinguish from other illnesses.
Ques 9. Is hypothyroidism caused by stress? (1 mark)
Ans. According to Dr. Wasser, cortisol, the main hormone produced in reaction to stress, can restrict pituitary function and prevent the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from being released, resulting in hypothyroidism.
Ques 10. At what age is hypothyroidism usually diagnosed? (1 mark)
Ans. It is more frequent in adults over the age of 60, but it can start at any age. It can be detected with a normal blood test or after the onset of symptoms.
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