Hypothyroidism
Concept and Etiology: Hypothyroidism is a condition of the thyroid gland in which
it doesn’t produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormones to keep the body
functioning properly (Story, 2017). The most common causes of hypothyroidism
include the autoimmune disease called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or'medical
treatments such as iodine radiation therapy resulting in iatrogenesis. Surgical
removal of the thyroid gland is also a common cause of hypothyroidism (ATA,
n.d). Some of the least common causes of hypothyroidism are insufficient or
excessive amounts of iodine, certain medications (lithium or amiodarone),
congenital hypothyroidism, thyroiditis and damage to the pituitary gland. This
condition deviates from the definition of health because it inhibits the secretion of
thyroid hormones that are responsible for metabolic reactions such as helping
regulate body temperature, producing energy, and enabling the brain, heart,
muscles and major organs to function optimally (ATA, n.d).
Classification: Hypothyroidism can be classified as a metabolic disorder because of
the way it negatively impacts the hormones responsible for metabolism causing
bodily functions to slow down.'
'Clinical Manifestations: Some symptoms of hypothyroidism include, fatigue,
constipation, unexplained weight gain, muscle weakness, myalgia, depression and
forgetfulness. Some signs of hypothyroidism are pale dry skin, increased sensitivity
to cold temperatures, edema of the hands and feet, hypotension,
hypercholesterolemia, brittle finger nails, hair loss, goiter, having a lower or hoarse
tone of voice and physical changes in the face such as drooping eyelids and
puffiness (Cleveland Clinic, 2020).
Diagnostic Tests: In order to diagnose hypothyroidism health providers would
perform physical examinations, review patient’s medical history, test blood for
serum thyroid hormone levels and serum TSH levels. Other diagnostic tests
include, complete blood count (CBC), liver function tests, electrocardiogram and
cholesterol panel (Story, 2017).
'
References
American Thyroid Association (ATA). (n.d). Hypothyroidism
FAQs.''https://www.thyroid.org/hypothyroidism/
Cleveland Clinic. (April 19, 2020).
Hypothyroidism.'https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12120-
hypothyroidism#symptoms-and-causes
Story, L. (March 1, 2017). Pathophysiology: A Practical Approach,
(3rd'ed).'https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/9781284142983
