Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a common disease that occurs due to insufficient function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a gland that is located in the neck and is responsible for producing thyroid hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are involved in regulating many important functions in the body.

If hypothyroidism is observed in a child from birth, this leads to the development of cretinism. Cretinism is a serious disease characterized by delayed mental and physical development. In adults, hypothyroidism causes mental and physical slowness, decreased sensitivity to cold, slow heart rate, significant weight gain, and roughening of the skin (myxedema).

Hypothyroidism can be caused by a variety of causes, including autoimmune diseases, radiation, treatment for thyroid cancer, surgical removal of the thyroid gland, insufficient iodine intake, and certain medications.

To diagnose hypothyroidism, blood is used to determine levels of thyroid hormones and a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). If thyroid hormone levels are decreased and TSH levels are elevated, this indicates hypothyroidism.

Treatment of hypothyroidism is based on replacing missing thyroid hormones. Treatment is usually with levothyroxine (a synthetic form of thyroxine), which is taken orally daily. The dosage of the medicine depends on the level of thyroid hormones and can be adjusted during treatment.

Overall, hypothyroidism is a serious condition that can lead to a variety of health problems, including delayed mental and physical development in children and myxedema in adults. However, thanks to modern diagnostic and treatment methods, most people with hypothyroidism can receive effective treatment and a full life.

Hypothyroidism is a condition characterized by insufficient function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland plays an important role in the body, producing hormones necessary to regulate metabolic processes, growth and development. When thyroid function decreases, thyroid hormone levels decrease, which can have a negative impact on various systems in the body.

Hypothyroidism can occur in both adults and children. If hypothyroidism occurs in a child from birth, he or she may develop a condition known as cretinism as a result. Cretinism is characterized by delayed physical and mental development, which can lead to weakened intellectual abilities and physical impairments.

In adults, hypothyroidism can cause a variety of symptoms, including mental and physical sluggishness, fatigue, drowsiness, decreased sensitivity to cold, decreased heart rate, significant weight gain, and roughening of the skin called myxedema. Patients with hypothyroidism may also experience problems with memory and concentration, as well as menstrual irregularities in women.

Treatment for hypothyroidism usually involves thyroid hormone replacement therapy. The most common drug used to treat hypothyroidism is thyroxine, a synthetic analogue of thyroid hormones. Doctors prescribe an individual dose of thyroxine, and patients usually take it for life. Regular tests of thyroid hormone levels allow you to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and make necessary adjustments to the dosage.

In conclusion, hypothyroidism is a condition in which there is insufficient function of the thyroid gland. It can cause a variety of symptoms and have a negative impact on the patient's general condition. However, thanks to modern diagnostic methods and effective replacement therapy, most people with hypothyroidism can achieve normalization of hormone levels and improve their well-being.