Highlights
- Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough of the hormones that regulate metabolism.
- The signs of hypothyroidism are easy to mistake for other conditions, so a consultation with a doctor is necessary for diagnosis.
- Treatment is available and BidRx helps you find the best prices for hypothyroidism medication.
Hypothyroidism (also called hypothyreosis or low thyroid) is an endocrine system disorder where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough of the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones are primarily involved in regulating metabolism, and treating hypothyroidism can help with a range of metabolic complaints.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the causes of hypothyroidism, possible symptoms and risk factors, and what treatments and medications are available.
Causes of Hypothyroidism
The most common cause, worldwide, is lack of iodine in the diet. This is a rare problem in the U.S., however, where most table salt is iodized.
In most advanced economies, hypothyroidism is generally caused by a medical condition or accident, including:
- Damage to the thyroid gland, hypothalamus, or pituitary gland
- Exposure to radioactive iodine during medical treatment
- A lack of a thyroid at birth
- Taking medications that impair the thyroid
- Surgery on the thyroid or neck
It’s currently estimated that between 0.3% and 0.4% of the U.S. population, approximately one million Americans, has hypothyroidism.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Depending on your age and the overall severity, hypothyroidism may be asymptomatic. While goiter, a swelling at the neck, is the most famous symptom, it’s relatively rare and has multiple causes.
More common symptoms are tied to metabolic anomalies and include:
- A constant feeling of cold or being unable to get warm
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Constipation
- Abnormally slow heart rate
- Weight gain
- Depression
- Heavy periods in women
Often these symptoms are mild and can be attributed to another cause. As many of these conditions are fairly common, it’s generally recommended that you see a doctor to rule out other causes.
Risk Factors for Hypothyroidism
There are a few risk factors to be aware of with hypothyroidism, some of which are unavoidable and others that can be anticipated.
Previous Treatment for Hyperthyroidism or Other Conditions
Some treatments for hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), especially early in life, can raise the risk of hypothyroidism later. Most notably, radioactive iodine can raise the risk of hypothyroidism, but other anti-thyroid medications and thyroid surgery may also have these effects. Unrelated treatments can also raise the risk of hypothyroidism, such as radiation treatment for cancer.
Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune disorders, such as type 1 diabetes, can aggravate the immune system and cause problems throughout the body, including in the thyroid.
Family History of Thyroid Disease
Research has found that a family history is a risk factor for hypothyroidism.
Pregnancy
Women who have given birth in the previous six months are at higher risk for hypothyroidism, although this will decline over time as the body finds its balance again.
Age
The incidence of hypothyroidism increases with age, especially after age 60. How much of this is due to natural processes and how much due to previous medical treatment is unclear, however. Age itself is not necessarily a primary factor.
Gender
Women have a higher incidence of hypothyroidism compared to men. Precisely why is still a matter of debate, although it may be tied to a higher incidence of autoimmune disorders in women.
Diagnosis of Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is diagnosed by testing the levels of thyroxine (T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland, and low levels can make it difficult for the thyroid to function. These tests are usually done twice to confirm the results.
Hypothyroidism has three classes of diagnosis:
Overt: TSH levels are high, but T4 and T3 are low. In these situations, there’s usually a problem with the thyroid itself.
Central: TSH is normal or low, and T4 is low. This points towards a problem with the hypothalamus or pituitary gland.
Subclinical: TSH is elevated, but T4 is normal. This usually comes to light by accident or because of testing due to risk factors, as it’s usually asymptomatic. Subclinical hypothyroidism is generally monitored with regular testing.
Complications of Hypothyroidism
Over time, if left unchecked, the metabolic problems associated with hypothyroidism can lead to complications.
These can include:
- Hypercholesterolemia. Hypercholesterolemia, also called high cholesterol, can raise the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Peripheral neuropathy. Tingling, numbness, or pain in the extremities can become an issue over time.
- Myxedema. Rare but very dangerous, long-term hypothyroidism can lead to myxedema, a condition where the body goes into coma if any stress is placed on it, including routine sedation.
- Infertility. Hypothyroidism can interfere with fertility in women and may also put a fetus at risk for birth defects, although hypothyroidism caught early can usually be safely addressed.
Treatments and Medications for Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is usually treated with medication that supplements your natural hormone production. Historically, this is done by taking natural hormones sourced from animals, but if you have a personal or religious objection to animal products, synthetic hormones are available.
Find The Lowest Price for Thyroid Medication With BidRX
If you’re living with hypothyroidism, you know medication costs can add to your troubles. Over the last four decades, medication prices have nearly quadrupled, making it more difficult to manage your medication costs.
BidRx can help you get the lowest price for hypothyroidism medications, as you’re not just going to your local pharmacy but asking pharmacies to give you the best price for your business. Find your thyroid medications and create a bid today, and pharmacies across the country will offer their best price. Choose your best offer and then have it shipped right to your door or pick it up locally, depending on the pharmacy you choose.
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