What’s the Hype? Hypothyroidism
Thyroid dysfunction can be life changing, as I personally found out several years ago.
I want to share my experience with thyroid issues as I hope it will help others. It was a difficult time for me; perhaps my story can help readers avoid leaving medical issues unidentified and untreated.
It just seemed like I woke up one morning and everything changed for me. I remember thinking maybe this is just a “flu bug” or the start of a cold coming on because I felt cold and fatigued. I went about my daily routine hoping it would ease up. As days went on, I would be hot and then cold. At other times I felt a little shaky and just exhausted. I started to notice even small changes in skin and hair. My hair was thinning and sometimes I would see many strands in my brush or even the shower. My skin seemed to be drier and so itchy and my moods… well, to say the least, I was all over the place! My blood pressure was even elevated! There were many mornings I felt like I never slept and had problems just starting my daily routine.
I decided to make an appointment to see my doctor. Several tests were done including an ultrasound of my thyroid. The results concluded that I had hypothyroidism and several goiters that lead to a partial thyroidectomy. I never realized how thyroid concerns could turn your world upside down!
Hypothyroidism results from a malfunctioning thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is involved in various metabolic processes controlling how quickly the body uses energy, makes proteins, and regulates hormones. In hypothyroidism, the synthesis of the hormone thyroxin is decreased. Thyroxin is the hormone that promotes growth of the brain and other body tissue.
Approximately 10 million Americans are likely to have hypothyroidism. About 12% of people will experience abnormal thyroid function at some point during their lives. Undiagnosed thyroid disease may put patients at risk for certain serious conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases and osteoporosis
There is an increased risk if you:
- Are a woman: Women are eight times more likely to develop a thyroid disorder than men.
- Are older than 60
- Have a family history of thyroid disease
- Have an autoimmune disease, such as type 1 diabetes or celiac disease
- Have been treated with radioactive iodine or anti-thyroid medications
- Received radiation to your neck or upper chest
- Have had thyroid surgery (partial thyroidectomy)
Did you know… that individuals with Down syndrome have a higher incidence of endocrine problems than the general population? Studies show that the incidence of thyroid disease in adults with Down syndrome is believed to be between 13% and 50%. People who have Down’s syndrome should have their thyroid tested every year (or more often if needed) throughout their life.
Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism can include:
- Excessive weight gain or fluctuation
- Fatigue/lethargy
- Sensitive to cold
- Dry skin
- Constipation
- Hair loss
Doctors may order one or more blood tests to check your thyroid function. Tests can include thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), T4, T3, and thyroid antibody tests.
Levothyroxine (Levoxyl, Synthroid) is the medication of choice used to treat hypothyroidism. It is designed to return adequate levels of thyroid hormone to your blood. After you start taking the medicine, you’ll go back to your doctor for a blood test to monitor thyroid hormone levels. Once your levels are stable, you’ll see your doctor for a blood test every 6 months to a year to monitor thyroid levels.
I feel thankful for the doctor’s assistance to get me back on track and to my desired energy levels. If you notice changes in someone you support, always rule out medical reasons first. Sometimes what appears to be behavioral, could actually be signs and symptoms of a medical concern. When concerns arise, always be sure to contact your doctor to make a proactive wellness plan for you or someone you support.
