Hypothyroidism is a disorder of the thyroid. The thyroid is a large gland that is located in the lower front of the neck. The thyroid releases hormones that control how the body works. With hypothyroidism, the thyroid does not make enough of these hormones.

CAUSES

Causes of hypothyroidism may include:

• Viral infections.
• Pregnancy.
• Your own defense system (immune system) attacking your thyroid.
• Certain medicines.
• Birth defects.
• Past radiation treatments to your head or neck.
• Past treatment with radioactive iodine.
• Past surgical removal of part or all of your thyroid.
• Problems with the gland that is located in the center of your brain (pituitary).

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism may include:

• Feeling as though you have no energy (lethargy).
• Inability to tolerate cold.
• Weight gain that is not explained by a change in diet or exercise habits.
• Dry skin.
• Coarse hair.
• Menstrual irregularity.
• Slowing of thought processes.
• Constipation.
• Sadness or depression.

DIAGNOSIS

Your health care provider may diagnose hypothyroidism with blood tests and ultrasound tests.

TREATMENT

Hypothyroidism is treated with medicine that replaces the hormones that your body does not make. After you begin treatment, it may take several weeks for symptoms to go away.

HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS

• Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider.
• If you start taking any new medicines, tell your health care provider.
• Keep all follow-up visits as directed by your health care provider. This is important. As your condition improves, your dosage needs may change. You will need to have blood tests regularly so that your health care provider can watch your condition.

SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF:

• Your symptoms do not get better with treatment.
• You are taking thyroid replacement medicine and:
• You sweat excessively.
• You have tremors.
• You feel anxious.
• You lose weight rapidly.
• You cannot tolerate heat.
• You have emotional swings.
• You have diarrhea.
• You feel weak.

SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL CARE IF:

• You develop chest pain.
• You develop an irregular heartbeat.
• You develop a rapid heartbeat.

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