Reduced function of thyroid gland

Description

Hypothyroidism or reduced function of thyroid gland. Thyroid gland is located in front part of the neck. Thyroid gland hormones help control the metabolism. Low thyroid hormone level is caused by functional disturbances of thyroid gland, pituitary gland or hypothalamus. This disease may develop in persons who take medicines for producing thyroid gland hormone due to an insufficient dose. Low thyroid hormone level may affect all bodily functions and in more severe cases may cause coma (myxedema) and death.

Symptoms

Intolerance to cold, tiredness, menstrual cycles disturbance, unexplained weight gain, depression, brittle and bristly hair, hoarseness, thickened skin, leg swelling, confusion, lethargy, coma.

Overview

Anamnesis is being taken and physical examination is being done. Cause of decreased thyroid level hormone is being determined.

Tests

Complete blood count (CBC), biochemical blood analysis, electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) and analysis of urine.

Additional analyses

Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), T4, T3.

Specialists

Endocrinology-Diabetology, General Practice, Internal Medicine, Nephrology

Therapy

Objective of the therapy is to remove the cause of hypothyroidism and to return the thyroid hormone levels to normal. Use of oral thyroid hormone medicaments usually represents effective treatment but severe cases of hypothyroidism require intravenous treatment. Myxedema coma is the most dangerous form of this disease, which includes intravenous administration of thyroid hormones, steroids, and other acompanying measures.