Hypothyroidism - This is a syndrome that is due to the fact that thyroid function is significantly reduced. For the first time such a clinical picture of hypothyroidism in children was described in 1850 in the city of Carling, and in adults in 1874. The most interesting thing is that hypothyroidism is considered the very first endocrine disease for which substitution therapy was used. And for such purposes, in 1891, Murray proposed the use of thyroid tissue in such an animal as a sheep. Naturally, today the situation has changed dramatically.
Today, hypothyroidism is a disease that occurs due to a lack of secretion of hormones from an organ such as the thyroid gland. In general, they differ: primary. Secondary, tertiary hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism - the causes of the disease
So, what are the real causes of the disease - hypothyroidism?
As for primary hypothyroidism, the production of hormones is significantly reduced here, this may be due to the development of the pathological process in the thyroid gland. But in secondary hypothyroidism, such a system as the hypothalamic-pituitary is caused by the pathological process, it is she who is responsible for the work of the gland itself.
There are several options for the development of hypothyroidism in its primary form: alterative - here the disease develops due to damage to the gland tissue, this is due to a weak immune system, medical intervention, injuries and so on. And the iodine deficiency option - this happens if there is insufficient intake of iodine in the body.
But the causes of secondary hypothyroidism are a disease of the hypothalamus or pituitary gland.
Hypothyroidism - symptoms of the disease
In general, the symptoms of the manifestation of this disease mainly depend on its etiology, the age of the patient, and also on how fast thyroid hormone deficiency develops. Most often, patients are dominated by symptoms such as the disease - “masks”. In connection with which there appears a pale icteric hue, very poor facial expressions and the look becomes as if alienated.
In addition, you can observe: dull hair, increased loss. And the behavior of patients can be a little slowed down, this is especially noticeable in speech, it begins to slow down and be less legible. The main complaint may be - dry skin throughout the body. In this case, depression, drowsiness, and a decrease in mental activity may appear.
Hypothyroidism - diagnosis of the disease
Diagnosis of hypothyroidism is evidence that thyroid function is reduced, it is quite simple. In other words, thanks to the diagnosis, the level of T4 and TSH is determined, so that such indications can determine whether the disease is present or not. The main risk groups for hypothyroidism are diabetes mellitus, various thyroid diseases, goiter, vitiligo, and so on. Diagnosis is carried out using tests that are prescribed by a specialist.
Hypothyroidism - treatment and prevention
Hypothyroidism can be treated with replacement therapy, thanks to levothyroxine. Depending on age. Growth, weight treatment options may also be different. Treatment should be prescribed by a specialist, after the patient passes a series of tests and it is confirmed that the disease really is.
Prevention of hypothyroidism consists mainly in the perfection of procedures for interventions on the thyroid gland, and the main thing is to choose the right dose of antithyroid drugs. In general, try at the slightest sign to take all kinds of tests, thanks to which it will be possible not only to defeat the disease, but also to prevent it.
