The thyroid gland is located in the throat under the larynx. It is wrapped around the trachea and releases the hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine, which are also known as T4 and T3, respectively. These hormones require a chemical compound called iodine to form, which can be obtained through a diet or supplement (if necessary). T3 is released from the thyroid in much smaller amounts than T4, but acts on T4 to convert it to T3. T3 is the chemical that stimulates cell metabolism. A low concentration of T3 can lower your metabolism.
Like many glands in the body, the thyroid works under a feedback mechanism. In other words, when there are small amounts of a particular hormone, the body signals the other glands in the chain to release hormones that act on the gland to release additional hormones. For example, a low thyroid hormone level in the blood sends a signal to the hypothalamus that sends a signal to the pituitary to release TSH or the thyroid stimulating hormone.
Hypothyroidism can result from an inactive pituitary gland that does not excrete enough TSH. Because it is the hormone that stimulates the production of T4 and T3, a low TSH level leads to low T4 and T3 levels. There are other reasons for low thyroid hormone levels, which can be related to hypothalamic or pituitary disorders or iodine deficiency, radiation exposure, or other conditions.
Treatment for hypothyroidism depends on the underlying cause of the disease. Most people are treated with synthetic drugs called levothyroxine sodium, commonly called levoxyl or synthryoid. These drugs are synthetic T4. Remember that T4 is converted to T3 in the body, which actually boosts cell metabolism. In some cases, lyothyronine sodium or T3 is used to treat hypothyroidism. However, since T3 is much shorter, the dose should be taken several times a day.
T4 is treated with hypothyroidism in the morning, 30 minutes before eating. Taking other medicines with T4 is not recommended as this may affect the effectiveness of T4. Once drug therapy begins, thyroid levels tests should be done every 6 weeks to ensure that there are sufficient levels of hormones in the bloodstream. An excessive amount of hormones can damage the heart and cause palpitations. It can also raise blood pressure, so it is very important to monitor thyroid medication.
Once the hypothyroidism treatment is found to be effective and hormone levels are maintained, an annual blood test is sufficient for continuous monitoring. If you experience symptoms such as weight gain, fatigue, depression, dry skin, muscle cramps or constipation, contact your doctor as a dose adjustment may be required. The blood levels of T4, T3 and TSH provide a complete picture of the appropriateness of drug therapy.
Underactive thyroid: causes and symptoms
Your thyroid, whose main function is to produce hormones that control the body's energy consumption, is shaped like a butterfly and is located in the front of the neck. If the thyroid becomes underactive or does not produce enough hormones, there is hypothyroidism.
A small amount of thyroid hormone has many effects on your entire body. It increases your cholesterol level, making you more prone to stroke or heart attack. It reduces your energy, which leads to weakness and exhaustion. Pregnant women should also be aware that if not treated, this condition can be harmful to the baby.
What is the good news? Hypothyroidism can be treated easily!
What exactly is causing this condition?
The most common cause in Australia is Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Because it forces the immune system to attack the thyroid tissue, the gland can no longer produce enough hormones.
This condition does not choose age. Regardless of your age, you can be affected. However, women aged 60 and over are more susceptible. More than that, if this condition underlies your family, it can increase your susceptibility to getting the same.
The most common factors that can lead to hypothyroidism are cancer radiation and surgery to remove the gland. Other less popular causes include lithium medication and viral infections.
How would you know if there is hypothyroidism?
Some symptoms of this disease are:
1. Dry skin 2. Brittle and fragile nails 3. Irregular or heavy menstruation (in women) 4. Sudden physical weakness and depression 5. Inability to withstand cool temperatures 6. Constipation 7. Memory problems
The above symptoms appear gradually. Because of this, you cannot recognize it as it is. You may even think that these are signs of aging. It is recommended to consult a doctor before the situation worsens.
Reviewed By Dr Andrew Charlton Has 62 publications, the author of 3 patents for inventions, 2 teaching aids on medical and pharmaceutical education of Australian universities for use in the educational process in medical universities.
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