Thyroid disfunction could be a cause for worry

A 36-year-old IT executive came with a host of complaints, the primary one being recent weight gain - almost 10 kg in one year.

A 36-year-old IT executive came with a host of complaints, the primary one being recent weight gain 8211; almost 10 kg in one year. She had also been feeling increasingly lethargic and was sleeping excessively. Recently, she had also noticed extreme mood swings and has been feeling 8220;low8221;. Her periods had become irregular and heavy. Her husband said her voice had become hoarse. Her skin had become dry and her hair was falling excessively.

She had to cut down working hours and hence was facing problems at work. And her marriage suffered because she often wanted to be alone.

For the thyroid specialist, the diagnosis was easy: Hypothyroidism.

She was started on thyroid replacement therapy and gradually she recovered.

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism refers to a state in which thyroid hormone, produced by the thyroid gland located in the lower part of the neck, is below normal due to the decreased activity of the gland.

Thyroxine T4 and triiodothyronine T3, are the thyroid hormones, with T3 being the active form. For the production of these hormones, the thyroid gland uses iodine mostly available from seafood, bread and salt. A deficiency of iodine in the diet often leads to hypothyroidism.

Even though the availability of iodine-supplemented salt has reduced the frequency of this disease considerably, there are still cases where the gland is partially destroyed, either during radioactive therapy, radiation exposure, or surgical removal. Autoimmune disease 8211; a condition in the body8217;s immune system produces antibodies against its own thyroid tissue 8211; is also an important cause of thyroid deficiency. Excessive iodine in diet, certain medications like lithium given for psychiatric illnesses and amiodorone given for heart irregularity and some viral and bacterial infections are also responsible for the disease.

Why is thyroid function important?

Thyroid hormone is responsible for growth, development, and other important cellular processes. The decreased levels of the hormone leads to a slowdown of metabolism, causing mental and physical sluggishness. However symptoms may vary from mild to severe See box, with the most severe form being 8220;myxedema coma8221; which is a medical emergency.

Who are prone to it?

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Subnormal function of thyroid affects upto 5 per cent of the population. The risk of developing hypothyroidism tends to increase with age. It is more common in women, who may develop it during or after pregnancy. Older women are the highest risk group and they should be more cautious.

In rare cases, hypothyroidism occurs in infants and children, with congenital factor being one of the causes. Since untreated hypothyroidism in infants can lead to mental retardation and developmental delays, it is very important to diagnose and treat the infants before they are a month old.

The treatment

One cannot prevent hypothyroidism, except through supplementation of iodine in areas where iodine in food is low. But awareness may allow early diagnosis and prompt treatment, through which the condition can be completely controlled.

After replacement therapy has begun, one should be cautious about any symptoms of increased thyroid activity symptoms include restlessness, rapid weight loss, heat intolerance, and sweating. Which is why the treatment should be conducted by a specialist.

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Medication should continue even after the symptoms disappear to prevent a relapse. At times, life-long therapy is needed to prevent relapses.

The writer is Director and Head Department of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Fortis Hospital, New Delhi

Symptoms

8226; Feeling tired and weak

8226; Sluggish body movements and speech

8226; Weight gain, dry skin and brittle nails

8226; Coarse and thinning hair

8226; Inability to tolerate cold

8226; Hoarseness in voice

8226; Constipation

8226; Muscle aches and cramps