Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland fails to produce enough of the hormone thyroxine which is necessary for normal metabolism. One of the major complications of hypothyroidism is an increased risk of developing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.
Symptoms of this include an increased risk of heart attack, stroke and congestive heart failure. Additionally, hypothyroidism can lead to an increased risk for the development of other complications such as obesity, infertility, depression, joint pains, and inflammation of the arteries.
Hypothyroidism can also increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cognitive impairment (including dementia) and autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto’s Disease and Graves’ Disease.
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When is hypothyroidism an emergency?
Hypothyroidism is generally not an emergency, as the diagnosis and treatment can be done gradually over time in most cases. However, there are certain instances in which hypothyroidism can become an emergency, particularly if the patient is experiencing a severe thyroid crisis or myxedema coma.
Symptoms of a thyroid crisis or myxedema coma may include confusion, seizures, decreased consciousness, respiratory depression, and low body temperatures, and in these cases, prompt medical attention is required.
Additionally, elderly patients with hypothyroidism may often be more prone to developing myxedema coma and should be closely monitored. If they are exhibiting any of the aforementioned symptoms, they should be taken to the hospital immediately.
Does hypothyroidism get progressively worse?
Yes, hypothyroidism can get progressively worse. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can cause serious health issues, including heart problems, infertility, and high cholesterol. Over time, the body’s inability to make enough thyroid hormones can lead to a worsening of the symptoms.
These can include fatigue, constipation, depression, hair loss, weight gain, increased sensitivity to cold temperatures, puffy face, and dry skin.
If you have hypothyroidism and it is left untreated, doctors recommend working with a specialist to develop a management plan. This plan should include lifestyle changes, such as getting enough exercise, eating a healthy diet, and minimizing stress.
Additionally, you may need to take hormone replacement medication. This helps to restore the levels of hormones that are needed for proper functioning.
If you are being treated for hypothyroidism, it is important to monitor your condition, as it can still worsen. This means that it is important to get regular check-ups, and get thyroxine levels checked from time to time.
Generally, if you are monitored carefully and take your medication as prescribed, the symptoms of hypothyroidism can be managed and the condition can be kept under control.
How high is too high for hypothyroidism?
It depends on the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). When TSH levels are greater than 10 mIU/L, it is considered too high. This is known as hyperthyroidism, and it can lead to a variety of symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, and depression.
If TSH levels stay substantially above the normal range for a period of time, it can lead to more serious conditions such as goiter, myxedema coma, and heart failure. Treatment for hyperthyroidism may include medications, radioactive iodine, or thyroid surgery.
If your TSH levels are consistently too high, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible to ensure adequate treatment.
When should you go to the ER for hypothyroidism?
If you experience any of the following symptoms related to hypothyroidism, you should go to the ER immediately: chest pain, shortness of breath, profuse sweating, uncontrollable shaking, and/or an irregular heartbeat.
Other symptoms that require immediate medical attention include severe fatigue, confusion, difficulty speaking, and difficulty swallowing. If you experience any of these symptoms in addition to the more common symptoms such as weight gain/difficulty losing weight, dry skin, and depression, it is best to go to the ER to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Your doctor can then refer you to an endocrinologist or other specialist if needed.
Can the ER check for hypothyroidism?
Yes, the Emergency Room (ER) can check for hypothyroidism. A doctor in the ER can perform a physical exam, review family history, and assess your symptoms. They will also likely order a lab test to check your thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels.
A diagnosis of hypothyroidism is made when TSH levels are found to be too high. If a doctor suspects hypothyroidism, additional testing may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis or rule out any other conditions.
Depending on the results, further treatment may be recommended such as prescribed medication or lifestyle changes. It is important to have any follow-up appointments with your primary care physician or endocrinologist to ensure proper management of the condition.
Can hypothyroidism hospitalize?
Yes, hypothyroidism can hospitalize a person if it is severe and left untreated. In some severe cases, it can lead to an enlarged heart, coma, a build up of fluid in the lungs, and even death.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, joint pain, sleep problems, dry skin, thinning hair, depression, constipation, slowed heart rate, and high cholesterol.
If left untreated, the person’s body can become toxic, leading to a life threatening situation. This is why it is important to seek medical help right away if any symptoms of hypothyroidism are present.
Hospitalization may be necessary in some cases to monitor the patient, administer medications and treatments, or to provide relief from any symptoms that may be present. Other treatments might include hormone replacement therapy, vitamins, dietary changes, and lifestyle changes.
It is important to remember that hypothyroidism is a serious condition and should always be treated by a medical professional. A doctor’s support and guidance throughout the journey to recovery is essential.
What is severe hypothyroidism in adults called?
Severe hypothyroidism in adults is a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, which is the organ in the body responsible for releasing hormones that control growth, metabolism, and other bodily functions.
When this gland does not produce enough hormones, certain signs and symptoms will manifest. Severe hypothyroidism in adults is also known as myxedema, which is a type of hypothyroidism characterized by severe levels of reduced thyroid hormone production.
Symptoms of severe hypothyroidism in adults can include extreme fatigue, weight gain and difficulty losing weight, joint and muscle pain, depression, headaches and migraines, constipation, dry skin and hair, slow heart rate, cognitive impairment, and high cholesterol.
In many cases, myxedema can be diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, blood tests, and imaging scans. Treatment of myxedema consists of medication to replace the hormones that are not produced by the body and lifestyle changes.
Which is more serious hypothyroidism or hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is more serious than hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones and can cause a range of health problems. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, constipation, dry skin, depression, and muscle aches.
Hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone and can cause signs such as difficulty sleeping, nervousness, sudden weight loss, feeling hot, and swelling of the thyroid gland.
Although hyperthyroidism can be uncomfortable, it is usually easier to treat than hypothyroidism because the overactive thyroid can more readily be brought back to normal levels with thyroid medications.
Hypothyroidism is a long-term chronic condition that can take years to treat and to get the thyroid levels balanced. So, although both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are different types of thyroid disorders, hypothyroidism is more serious because it is harder to treat and carries more potential long-term health risks if not treated correctly.
