Hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone)

Description A condition of low ...

Description

A condition of low thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck. Thyroid hormone helps control metabolism. Low thyroid hormone is caused by abnormalities of the thyroid gland, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus. For people who take thyroid hormone medication, hypothyroidism may be due to an insufficient dose. Low thyroid hormone can affect all bodily functions and if severe may cause coma (myxedema) and death.

Symptoms

Cold intolerance, fatigue, abnormal menstrual cycles, unexplained weight gain, depression, thin and brittle hair, hoarseness, thickening skin, leg swelling, confusion, lethargy, coma.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests will be performed to determine the cause of the low thyroid hormone.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), Thyroid ultrasound, Thyroxine (T4), Triiodothyronine (T3), Thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies

Other Specific Tests: Electrocardiogram, Urinalysis

Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Pediatric Endocrinology

Treatment

The goal of therapy is to reverse the cause of hypothyroidism and to return the thyroid hormone levels to normal. Oral thyroid hormone is usually effective but severe hypothyroidism may require intravenous treatment. Myxedema coma, the most dangerous form of the disease, requires immediate treatment, including intravenous thyroid replacement, steroids, and other supportive measures.