The thyroid is an organ responsible for secreting thyroid hormones essential for life. These hormones play a crucial role in newborn and child growth and brain development and help regulate the body’s metabolism. When thyroid hormone production is too low or too high, disorders such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can occur.
According to the medical online forum, hypothyroidism occurs when the body lacks sufficient thyroid hormones for an extended period. This condition leads to chronic fatigue, sudden weight gain, and a general slowdown in metabolism. As a result, fatigue increases, motivation decreases, and even speech slows down. Some patients may also experience digestive issues, bloating, and swelling despite eating less than usual.
Hypothyroidism can cause the skin to become rough and cold while body temperature drops below normal, making individuals particularly sensitive to cold. This heightened sensitivity is due to the overall slowdown in energy production and consumption, which reduces heat generation and lowers the basal metabolic rate. Women with this condition may also notice an increase in menstrual flow.
If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to serious health complications. These include an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, heart failure, and elevated cholesterol levels. Other potential issues range from depression and cognitive decline to edema and menstrual irregularities. In severe cases, the condition can even progress to coma. For women, fertility problems may arise, while men might experience decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.
Hypothyroidism develops gradually, with its prevalence increasing with age. In women, cases start rising in their 20s and peak in their 60s, whereas in men, the condition tends to develop later. Among individuals in their 20s and 30s, symptoms may go unnoticed due to academic stress and work-related fatigue. In older adults, particularly those in their 60s and beyond, aging and hormonal changes, such as menopause, can lead to fatigue, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating, making it challenging to differentiate from other conditions. Because the symptoms often overlap with common fatigue or age-related issues, many patients delay seeking medical attention, resulting in late diagnoses.
Hypothyroidism can be easily diagnosed through a blood test that measures thyroid hormone levels. Additionally, thyroid autoantibody tests can confirm whether an autoimmune thyroid disorder causes the condition. In some cases, thyroid ultrasounds or radiology scans may also assist in diagnosis.
Treatment for hypothyroidism usually involves hormone replacement therapy to supplement the deficient thyroid hormones. While the treatment itself is uncomplicated, proper medication adherence is crucial. Patients should take thyroid hormone medications on an empty stomach in the morning, waiting at least 30 minutes before eating. If the morning dose is missed, it can be taken before bedtime, after allowing sufficient time for digestion following dinner. Side effects are generally minimal, with most patients experiencing symptom improvement within 2 to 3 months of starting treatment.
Ko Kyung Soo from the Endocrinology and Diabetes Center at Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital warned that discontinuing or delaying treatment without consulting a doctor can lead to serious complications, including atherosclerosis, heart disease, and even loss of consciousness.
Yoo Hyun Jin from Kangdong Kyung Hee University Hospital explained that while many patients require lifelong thyroid hormone medication, some cases may be temporary depending on the underlying cause. Yoo stressed the importance of seeking proper diagnosis and treatment from a specialist, as dosages may need to be adjusted over time.
Yoo further explained that once the appropriate dosage is determined, patients may only need to visit the hospital once or twice a year for check-ups. However, Yoo cautioned that certain medications, coexisting conditions, and weight changes can affect hormone requirements. Therefore, regular monitoring and consultations remain necessary. Most individuals can maintain a healthy lifestyle without significant disruptions with accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Ko advised individuals to be vigilant about potential symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as increased sensitivity to cold, sudden weight gain, or persistent fatigue, even during warm weather. He pointed out that these symptoms can easily be mistaken for a common cold or attributed to the effects of air conditioning. Given the gradual onset of hypothyroidism, Ko recommended seeking medical evaluation if any concerning symptoms arise, as early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.