Myxoedema

Myxoedema: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Myxedema, also known as myxedema hypothyroidism, is a clinical syndrome that occurs in adults with hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. This syndrome is characterized by a variety of symptoms, including rough skin, cold intolerance, significant weight gain, and slowed mental functioning. However, with adequate treatment based on the administration of thyroxine, most symptoms of myxedema can be successfully alleviated or eliminated.

One of the main signs of myxedema is a dry, dense and waxy swelling of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. This occurs due to the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAG), substances responsible for retaining moisture, in the skin and tissues. As a result, the skin becomes thick, swollen and rough to the touch.

Patients with myxedema also experience cold intolerance due to decreased heat metabolism in the body. They may feel constantly cold, even in low ambient temperatures, and have difficulty maintaining a normal body temperature.

Another characteristic symptom of myxedema is significant weight gain. Patients may experience weight gain for no apparent reason or even while following a low-calorie diet. This is due to the slowing of metabolism that occurs with hypothyroidism.

In addition, myxedema can cause mental slowdown and mental changes. Patients may experience lethargy, fatigue, poor concentration and memory, and depression or irritability.

The diagnosis of myxedema is usually based on clinical symptoms and a test of thyroid hormone levels in the blood. Treatment consists of thyroid hormone replacement therapy, mainly thyroxine. Thyroxine is a synthetic analogue of the hormone normally produced by the thyroid gland, and taking it helps compensate for the lack of thyroid hormones in the body. Regular use of thyroxine under medical supervision allows patients with myxedema to control the condition and reduce or eliminate symptoms.

It is important to note that treatment of myxedema should be carried out under the supervision of a physician and requires regular monitoring of the level of thyroid hormones in the blood. The dosage of thyroxine can be individually adjusted depending on the needs of each patient.

In addition to replacement therapy, it is also important to pay attention to general measures to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet can help manage your weight and overall health.

In conclusion, myxedema is a clinical syndrome associated with hypothyroidism that presents with certain symptoms such as roughening of the skin, cold intolerance, weight gain, and mental slowdown. Timely diagnosis and treatment of myxedema, including the administration of thyroxine, allows patients to effectively cope with this condition and improve their quality of life. Consultation with an endocrinologist is necessary to determine the diagnosis and develop an individual treatment plan.

Myxoedema: symptoms, causes and treatment

Myxoedema is a clinical syndrome that occurs due to decreased activity of the thyroid gland, and manifests itself as a dry, dense, waxy tumor of the skin and subcutaneous tissues. This syndrome is most often observed in adults and is characterized by roughening of the skin, intolerance to cold, significant weight gain and slowing of mental activity.

Causes of myxedema

Hypothyroidism is the main cause of myxedema. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, which can be caused by a variety of reasons, including autoimmune diseases, radiation therapy, surgical removal of the thyroid gland, or partial removal of the thyroid gland.

Symptoms of myxedema

The main symptoms of myxedema are:

1. Skin roughening
2. Cold intolerance
3. Significant weight gain
4. Slowing down of mental activity

In addition to these symptoms, the following may be present:

1. Dry skin
2. Brittle nails
3. Excessive hair loss
4. Swelling around the eyes
5. Constipation
6. Pale skin
7. Low blood pressure
8. Decreased heart rate

Diagnosis of myxedema

To diagnose myxedema, your doctor may order blood tests to measure your thyroid hormone levels. An ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland or x-ray may also be performed.

Treatment of myxedema

Treatment for myxedema involves giving patients thyroid hormones, such as levothyroxine (also known as thyroxine). Levothyroxine is taken throughout life and helps restore normal levels of thyroid hormones in the body. The dosage of the medicine can be prescribed individually, depending on the severity of the disease and the general condition of the patient.

In conclusion, myxedema is a serious condition that can lead to many complications if not diagnosed and treated promptly. If you suspect myxedema, be sure to consult a doctor for advice and prescribe the necessary treatment.

Myxedemia is a serious disease of the endocrine system. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common autoimmune pathology of the thyroid gland. Due to the inflammatory process, too few hormones are produced, which leads to the development of myxedema. Myxedema belongs to the group of endocrinopathies, referred to as “aging in reverse.” First of all, most patients experience the following symptoms:

> * Lethargy, drowsiness, weakness > > > > * Swelling, easy fatigue >

Symptoms for mixed and severe disease are less pronounced. In addition: 1. Impaired thermoregulation function, a tendency to overheat or hypothermia with a decrease in heat production, which is eliminated by limiting physical activity and taking hot baths. 2. Amenorrhea, discharge from the genital tract, menstrual irregularities, impotence, decreased libido 3. Decreased attention, loss of performance, memory impairment, inattention 4. Decreased body temperature, which cannot be increased even with increased physical activity 5. The appearance of age spots on the skin 6. Male pattern hair loss, pubic and armpit baldness 7. The appearance of constipation, diarrhea; 8. Weakening of the immune system up to the occurrence of secondary infections; 9. Headache, sleep disturbances; 10. Fatigue and drowsiness;