Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid) Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatment

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones control how your body uses energy and affect nearly every organ, including the way your heart beats. Without enough thyroid hormones, many of your body’s functions, including metabolism and heart rate, slow down. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of your neck.

Hypothyroidism Risk Factors

Under the control of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the pituitary, the thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid hormones affect metabolism, heat production as well as growth and development.

Disorder of the thyroid, like all endocrine glands, can lead to the following:

• Goitre – gland swelling
• Hyperthyroidism – increased production of thyroid hormones
• Hypothyroidism – reduced thyroid function

Hypothyroidism Causes

The most common cause of hypothyroidism is autoimmune disease. It can also arise from thyroid removal or radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment of the thyroid. Secondary hypothyroidism can arise from pituitary disease. A blood test with low thyroid hormones and raised TSH confirms the diagnosis of primary hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism Symptoms

The symptoms of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) often overlap with those of other conditions, making it easy to mistake for something else. These symptoms usually develop gradually, so you may not realise you have a thyroid problem for years.

Common symptoms of Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) include:

• Weight gain
• Cold intolerance
• Tiredness
• Poor mental function
• Raised serum cholesterol
• Constipation
• Depression
• Muscle aches and weakness
• Muscle cramps
• Dry, scaly skin
• Brittle hair and nails
• Loss of libido (sex drive)
• Pain, numbness, or tingling in the hands and fingers (carpal tunnel syndrome)
• Irregular or heavy periods

In elderly individuals, hypothyroidism can lead to memory problems and depression. In children, it may cause slower growth and development, while in teenagers, it may lead to early puberty.

Hypothyroidism Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of hypothyroidism is crucial to prevent complications such as high cholesterol and atherosclerosis, which can lead to heart problems like angina or heart attacks. If you experience symptoms of an underactive thyroid, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider and request a blood test.

Thyroid Function Test

A thyroid function test is the most accurate way to diagnose hypothyroidism. This blood test measures levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine (T4). High TSH and low T4 typically indicate hypothyroidism. If TSH is elevated but T4 is normal, you may be at risk of developing hypothyroidism in the future, and your doctor may recommend regular monitoring.

Hypothyroidism Treatment

Hypothyroidism is typically treated with a lifelong daily dose of levothyroxine, a synthetic hormone that replaces the thyroxine your thyroid is not producing enough of. Your doctor will adjust the dose through regular blood tests until thyroid hormone and TSH levels are normalised.

Levothyroxine replaces the missing thyroid hormone. The dose is gradually adjusted based on how your body responds. It may take some time to feel better, but once the right dose is determined, blood tests are typically performed annually to monitor your levels.

Get the Right Diagnosis and Treatment for Hypothyroidism Today

If you are experiencing symptoms of hypothyroidism or are concerned about your thyroid health, don’t wait to seek help. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing your condition effectively. Contact Gleneagles Hospital Penang today to schedule a thyroid function test and ensure you're on the right path to better health. Our team of expert healthcare professionals including Prof. Dr Amir S. Khir and Dr. Yeow Toh Peng are here to assist you every step of the way.