Beyond the Hype: Understanding Hypothyroidism
Thyroid dysfunction can be life changing, as I personally found out. I’m sharing my experience with thyroid issues with the hope it will help others. It was a difficult time for me. Perhaps my story will help readers avoid leaving medical issues unidentified and untreated.
The Start
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 chilled and fatigued. Still, 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 my skin and hair. My hair was thinning; sometimes I saw many strands in my brush or even the shower. My skin seemed to be drier and so itchy. In addition my moods… well, to say the least, I was all over the place! Even my blood pressure elevated. Many mornings I felt like I never slept and had problems just starting my daily routine.
The Diagnosis
Finally, I decided to make an appointment to see my doctor. The physician did several tests, including an ultrasound of my thyroid. The results concluded that I had hypothyroidism and several goiters that led 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.
The Risk
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
What puts a person at an increased risk?
- Being a woman (Women are eight times more likely to develop a thyroid disorder than men.)
- Older than 60
- Family history of thyroid disease
- Have an autoimmune disease, such as type 1 diabetes or celiac disease
- Received treatment 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 between 13% to 50% of adults with Down syndrome experience thyroid disease. People who have Down’s syndrome should have their thyroid tested every year (or more often if needed) throughout their life.
The Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism can include:
- Excessive weight gain or fluctuation
- Fatigue/lethargy
- Sensitive to cold
- Dry skin
- Constipation
- Hair loss
The Treatment
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 return 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.
