Hypothyroidism is not a known comorbidity for COVID-19, although the two conditions can have overlapping symptoms.
However there have been reports of people with underlying health conditions developing more severe symptoms if they contract the virus.
The risk of a person with hypothyroidism contracting COVID-19 appears to be the same as the risk of someone without the condition contracting the virus.
Since there is a potential for the symptoms of hypothyroidism and COVID-19 to overlap, people with the condition should monitor the symptoms carefully and consult with their doctor if they suspect they may have the virus.
Additionally, people with hypothyroidism should follow recommended guidelines for preventing the spread of the virus, such as washing their hands regularly and wearing a face covering when out in public.
Table of Contents
What effect does COVID-19 have on hypothyroidism?
The effect of COVID-19 on hypothyroidism is still unknown. As experts continue to study the virus and its effects, it is unclear how the virus may specifically impact people with hypothyroidism. Preliminary research suggests that those with hypothyroidism may be at a higher risk for developing a more severe infection if they become infected with COVID-19.
It is also not known if COVID-19 may affect existing hypothyroidism or medications used to treat the condition.
One area of research being conducted is whether the virus interacts with the endocrine system, which is responsible for producing hormones, including thyroid hormones. There is also an ongoing effort to explore the connection between hypothyroidism and the inflammatory response associated with COVID-19.
This is of particular concern as autoimmune diseases, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, cause inflammation of the thyroid and are a major cause of hypothyroidism.
It is critical that those with hypothyroidism take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from COVID-19. This includes following public health COVID-19 safety guidelines regarding social distancing, hand hygiene, and wearing a mask when in public.
It is also important to stay in regular contact with your doctor to monitor your health and keep them informed of any changes in your condition. Additionally, be sure to take your medication as prescribed.
If any changes in your medication are recommended, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Is there a link between COVID and thyroid?
At this time, there is no evidence that suggests a link between COVID-19 and thyroid diseases. However, some healthcare providers are concerned that some of the symptoms associated with the virus, such as fever, body aches and fatigue, may be mistaken for signs of a thyroid disorder.
Additionally, research has shown that some people with pre-existing conditions, including thyroid dysfunction, could be at greater risk of needing critical care or even death if they contract COVID-19.
That being said, it is important to be mindful of any changes in your body, particularly if you have a history of thyroid disease. If you experience symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, or chest pain, contact your healthcare provider for evaluation and testing for COVID-19.
With the ever-changing landscape when it comes to viruses and diseases, it is important to stay abreast of any new information regarding links between COVID-19 and thyroid diseases or any other underlying medical conditions.
Are you immunocompromised if you have hypothyroidism?
No, typically having hypothyroidism does not make someone immunocompromised. Hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disease that affects your thyroid gland, leading to symptoms such as tiredness, weight gain, constipation, and dry skin.
Having hypothyroidism does not necessarily weaken your immune system and make you more prone to viral infections such as the common cold or flu. However, those with hypothyroidism who already have a weakened immune system may be more prone to infection or illnesses.
Additionally, hypothyroidism can cause certain types of anemia, which can further weaken the immune system, making someone more vulnerable to infection. If you have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, it’s important to speak with your doctor about your risks for developing illnesses.
They may advise lifestyle modifications or getting an annual flu shot to help protect yourself from infection.
Can I have Covid vaccine if I have hypothyroidism?
Yes, you can have the Covid-19 vaccine if you have hypothyroidism. However, it is important to talk to your doctor first to determine if it is safe for you to receive the vaccine. Your doctor may want to monitor your health before, during, and after the vaccination process.
Some possible risks associated with having the vaccine and hypothyroidism may include a weakened immune system, increased risk of ‘cytokine storms’ (excessive inflammation), or reactions to the vaccine that could activate or exacerbate existing autoimmune diseases.
Your doctor will be able to provide information on the possible risks associated with taking the vaccine and your specific medical condition.
Can hypothyroidism cause you to get sick easily?
Yes, hypothyroidism can cause you to get sick easily. This is because the thyroid is responsible for producing hormones which help control the body’s metabolism, and when it is not working properly, it can affect the immune system.
When the immune system is weak, it is unable to fight off invaders, making it easier for infections to take hold and cause sickness. Common signs that a person may be experiencing an immune system issue due to hypothyroidism are frequent colds and flus, sinus infections, and other respiratory infections.
Additionally, some people with hypothyroidism may also experience a period of physical and mental exhaustion, which can lead to weakened immunity, making it easier to become time. If you think you may have hypothyroidism, it is important to speak with your doctor so that it can be properly diagnosed and treated.
What are common comorbidities with hypothyroidism?
The term ‘comorbidity’ refers to the simultaneous presence of multiple medical conditions in a single patient. In relation to hypothyroidism, common comorbidities include mood disorders, obesity, autoimmune diseases, and other endocrine-related medical conditions.
Mood Disorders: Hypothyroidism can lead to depression or anxiety, which are both common comorbidities. Patients can present with a range of symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating, low energy, irritability, and even difficulty sleeping.
Obesity: Obesity is another common comorbidity of hypothyroidism. Because thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, people with hypothyroidism have a slower metabolism, which can contribute to weight gain.
Autoimmune Diseases: When a person has hypothyroidism, they can also have an autoimmune disease such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This is when the person’s body forms antibodies that attack their own thyroid cells, resulting in inflammation.
This can lead to further complications, such as hypothyroidism.
Other Endocrine-related Medical Conditions: Certain other medical conditions can be connected to hypothyroidism, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS causes a hormone imbalance in women, resulting in cysts on the ovaries, irregular or missed periods, and excess hair growth.
Additionally, people with hypothyroidism are more likely to have adrenal insufficiency, which is when the adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones. This can lead to fatigue, muscle weakness, and a decrease in blood pressure.
Are people with Hashimoto at risk for COVID?
Yes, people with Hashimoto are at greater risk for COVID-19. People with Hashimoto’s disease have an autoimmune disorder that affects their thyroid gland, and this can lead to an increased risk of other illnesses.
In particular, the weakened immune system that is associated with Hashimoto’s makes them more susceptible to the virus that causes COVID-19. This risk is compounded by the fact that COVID-19 can lead to more serious complications in those with underlying health conditions, such as Hashimoto.
Individuals with Hashimoto should take extra precautions to protect themselves from contracting COVID-19, including wearing a mask in public, avoiding large gatherings and social distancing, and regularly washing their hands.
Additionally, it’s important for those with Hashimoto’s to stay up to date with their health treatments, as this can help keep their immune system as healthy as possible and less prone to infection.
What chronic conditions are high risk for Covid?
Those with chronic conditions are at higher risk for more severe complications from Covid-19, including:
• Chronic lung disease, such as emphysema, COPD, bronchitis, and asthma
• Diabetes
• Heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, and high blood pressure
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Neurological conditions that impair breathing, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and severe spinal cord injury
• Compromised immune systems from medications, such as chemotherapy and long-term steroid use
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Sickle cell disease
• Smoking or vaping
• HIV
• Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (AHUS)
Can COVID increase TSH levels?
No, it is not likely that COVID-19 can increase TSH levels. However, it is possible that persons with COVID-19 may become more prone to autoimmune thyroid diseases, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease, due to an increase in inflammation.
If a person with COVID-19 develops one of these disorders, their TSH levels may become elevated. Additionally, stress from the effects of the pandemic may also increase TSH levels and affect the production of hormones.
It is important to pay attention to any noticeable changes in thyroid functioning so that necessary steps can be taken to address the issue. Consulting with a doctor can help clarify any questions or concerns about changes in TSH levels.
What other conditions may be associated with hypothyroidism?
Individuals suffering from hypothyroidism may experience a variety of additional physical and mental health symptoms, in addition to the classic signs associated with the condition, including fatigue, weight gain, forgetfulness, depression, joint pain, and dry skin.
Some of the other conditions that may be associated with hypothyroidism include:
• High cholesterol
• Cardiovascular disease
• Infertility
• Premature birth or delayed development during infancy
• Hair loss
• Hoarse voice
• Muscle aches, cramps, and tenderness
• Frequent or heavy menstrual bleeding
• Decreased libido
• Slowed reflexes
• Mental confusion and slower thinking
• Constipation
• Anemia
• Neuromuscular degenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, and other neurological disorders
• Depression and anxiety
• Increased risk for developing autoimmune disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Gastrointestinal problems such as bloating, heartburn, acid reflux, and occasional diarrhea
• Weight loss that is unintentional and unresponsive to dietary changes
• Goiter or an enlarged thyroid
• Vision problems
• Paresthesias or tingling in extremities
Can hypothyroidism lead to other autoimmune disorders?
Yes, hypothyroidism can lead to other autoimmune disorders. Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. In some cases, hypothyroidism can trigger or increase the severity of an autoimmune disorder.
For example, hypothyroidism can cause Hashimoto’s disease, which is a kind of autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid. Furthermore, people with hypothyroidism are also more likely to experience other autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogren’s syndrome.
People with hypothyroidism should talk to their doctor about their individual risk of developing an autoimmune disorder, as well as the most effective ways to prevent or treat such a condition.
Which auto antibody is found most frequently in individuals with autoimmune hypothyroidism?
The autoantibody found most frequently in individuals with autoimmune hypothyroidism is thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb). TPOAb is found in the majority (up to 95%) of individuals with autoimmune hypothyroidism and is used as a diagnostic indicator for the condition.
The presence of TPOAb means that an individual’s immune system has formed antibodies against thyroid peroxidase (TPO), an enzyme involved in producing the thyroid hormones. This can lead to a decrease in thyroid hormone levels and the development of hypothyroidism.
Other common autoimmune antibodies associated with autoimmune hypothyroidism are thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb) and TSH receptor antibody (TRAb). TgAb is normally found in up to 70% of individuals with autoimmune hypothyroidism, while TRAb is typically found in up to 15% of cases.
What other autoimmune diseases can Hashimoto’s cause?
In addition to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, there are other autoimmune diseases that can be triggered by Hashimoto’s. They include type 1 diabetes, Grave’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, and lupus.
All of these autoimmune diseases can be triggered by Hashimoto’s by attacking an area of the body instead of the thyroid. Type 1 diabetes involves the destruction of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas by Hashimoto’s antibodies.
Grave’s disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the antibodies of Hashimoto’s cause the thyroid gland to produce too much hormone. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which Hashimoto’s antibodies cause the body’s immune system to attack the joints, leading to inflammation and pain.
Celiac disease is a digestive condition triggered by eating gluten that causes an immune response in the small intestine. Finally, lupus is an autoimmune disorder in which Hashimoto’s antibodies attack various organs and tissues, leading to inflammation.
Is hypothyroidism linked to lupus?
While there is no definitive correlation between hypothyroidism and lupus, the two conditions may be linked in certain cases. Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, occurs when the body fails to produce the required levels of thyroid hormones in the bloodstream.
In some individuals, lupus, an autoimmune disorder causing chronic inflammation, can be a factor in causing hypothyroidism. Additionally, lupus can be triggered or worsened by an underlying case of hypothyroidism.
It is believed that there is a connection between hypothyroidism and lupus due to how similar the symptoms can be. This can lead to confusion in diagnosis as similar symptoms can often indicate both conditions.
Common symptoms include: fatigue, difficulty concentrating, weight gain, joint pain and depression.
It is important to always receive expert medical advice if you think you may have either hypothyroidism or lupus. Diagnosis and treatment by a qualified physician is the best way to get relief from the symptoms and to slow down the development of any further complications associated with either condition.
