Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. This gland, located at the base of the neck, plays a key role in regulating metabolism, that is, the rate at which the body converts food into energy. When the thyroid does not produce enough hormones, the body’s metabolic processes begin to slow down, causing a wide variety of symptoms that affect both physical and emotional well-being.
The prevalence of hypothyroidism
According to recent studies, hypothyroidism affects between 4% and 10% of the world’s population, being more common in women than in men. In fact, women are up to eight times more likely to develop the disease, especially as they age. This disorder can occur at any stage of life, although its incidence increases significantly after age 50.
One of the most worrying aspects of this disease is its subclinical nature, that is, it can develop silently and with mild symptoms that are often attributed to aging, stress or other health conditions. This makes it difficult to diagnose early, which can lead to worsening symptoms and long-term complications.
What causes hypothyroidism?
There are various causes behind hypothyroidism, the most common being Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease in which the immune system itself attacks the thyroid gland. This progressive destruction of thyroid cells reduces their ability to produce hormones, thus generating a hormonal deficit.
Another common cause is the treatment of other thyroid conditions. For example, hypothyroidism may occur after surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland, or after treatment with radioactive iodine to combat hyperthyroidism or thyroid cancer.
Other possible causes include nutritional deficiencies, especially a lack of iodine in the diet, and the use of certain medications that can interfere with thyroid function, such as lithium or some heart disease treatments.
Symptoms that should not be ignored
Hypothyroidism affects each person differently, and symptoms can vary in intensity and duration. Some of the most common include extreme fatigue, unexplained weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, sensitivity to cold, constipation, and muscle weakness. It is also common for people with hypothyroidism to experience depression or anxiety, which can further complicate the diagnosis, as emotional symptoms are often confused with psychiatric disorders.
Mental slowness and memory problems are also common signs, which can lead to a decrease in quality of life. In the long term, if not treated properly, hypothyroidism can cause more serious complications, such as infertility, heart disease, and even coma, a condition known as “myxedema coma,” which can be life-threatening.
Diagnosis and treatment
The diagnosis of hypothyroidism is based on measuring the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood. The most common test is a measurement of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), produced by the pituitary gland. In cases of hypothyroidism, TSH levels are usually elevated, as the body tries to compensate for the low production of thyroid hormones by stimulating the thyroid more.
Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the treatment of hypothyroidism is relatively simple in most cases and consists of the daily administration of levothyroxine, a synthetic hormone that replaces the hormones that the thyroid cannot produce. This treatment allows you to restore hormonal balance and, thereby, relieve symptoms.
It is important to note that the treatment of hypothyroidism is lifelong and requires regular monitoring with blood tests to adjust the dosage of medication, according to the patient’s changing needs. The appropriate dosage may vary over time due to factors such as aging, weight gain, or the presence of other diseases.
The importance of early diagnosis
Although hypothyroidism can be controlled with medication, early diagnosis remains essential to prevent complications. Prompt treatment not only relieves symptoms, but also reduces the risk of serious problems such as heart disease, infertility or neurological problems.
In many cases, subclinical hypothyroidism, in which hormone levels are slightly altered but have not yet caused significant symptoms, can go unnoticed. However, experts recommend regular testing for people with risk factors, such as a family history of thyroid disease, women over 50, or those who have had difficulty getting pregnant.
Psychological impact and quality of life
Hypothyroidism doesn’t just affect the body; It also has a profound impact on the mental and emotional health of those who suffer from it. Hormonal changes can trigger episodes of depression, anxiety, irritability and fatigue, which can affect quality of life and interpersonal relationships. Some people even experience a decline in their work or academic performance due to poor concentration and memory problems.
It is essential that health professionals consider these psychological aspects in the treatment of hypothyroidism, providing emotional support and, when necessary, referring patients to mental health specialists. Likewise, it is recommended to implement healthy habits, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, which can help mitigate some of the symptoms and improve general well-being.
Hypothyroidism is a common but underappreciated disorder that affects millions of people around the world. Despite its debilitating effects, it is a condition that can be managed effectively with proper treatment. The key to improving patients’ quality of life lies in early diagnosis, awareness of symptoms, and personalized treatment that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of the disease.
Early detection and regular treatment not only allow patients to lead a normal life, but also prevent serious complications. As research into the underlying causes and treatments continues, it is hoped that more people will be able to receive the support they need to manage their hypothyroidism effectively.
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