Thyroid Treatment in Kolhapur

Do you know what is thyroid disorder?

• Thyroid is a butterfly shaped glad which secretes essential hormones.
• Triiodothyronine (T3) and Tetra-iodothyronine or Thyroxine (T4) are the two important hormones of the thyroid gland.
• T3 and T4 hormones are essential for the smooth functioning of our body's organs (brain, heart and muscles) and are very essential for metabolism, energy production as well as fertility.
• Thyroid also plays a very crucial role in the growth of your child's growth and puberty.

How common is the thyroid disorder in India?

• Every 1 in 8 female has thyroid disorder.
• Out of which 50% are unaware of the thyroid disorder.

What are the disorders of the thyroid gland?

If the thyroid gland's function is not carried out in a proper manner due to irregular secretion, it leads to various disorders of the thyroid gland. These include

Hypothyroidism

Reduced production of thyroid hormone.

Hyperthyroidism

Excessive production of thyroid hormone.

Goiter

Formation of nodules in the thyroid gland.

What tests are required to diagnose thyroid disorders?

• The TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) test, which is used to diagnose thyroid disorders, measures the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the blood.
• Generally, the thyroid level in the blood is around 0.5-4.5 mlU/L. If this level is above 4.5 mlU/L, it indicates hypothyroidism, and if it is below 0.45 mlU/L, it indicates hyperthyroidism. It is very essential to get your TFT interpreted from a qualified endocrinologist.
• It is essential to do your thyroid test every 3 to 6 months if you're diagnosed with thyroid disorder.

Hypothyroidism

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may be at risk of H-ypothyroidism

• Swelling on the face/feet
• Unexplained weight gain
• Fatigue
• Weakness/ Lethargy
• Muscle pain
• Excessive menstrual bleeding, irregularities
• Dry, coarse, pale skin
• Hair loss
• Swelling in the throat
• Increased Cholesterol Levels
• Constipation
• Changes in voice
• Forgetfulness
• Slow Heart Rate

What could be the cause behind my Hypothyroidism?

• Autoimmune disease (Autoimmune thyroiditis - your own body attacking your gland)
• Congenital disorders
• Post-thyroid surgery/post-radiation/post viral

10 Important Tips for Patients Taking Thyroxine Medication in Hypothyroidism

• Take the thyroxine medication on an empty stomach, right after waking up in the morning.
• Refrain from eating anything for at least 4 hours before and 45 mins after taking thyroxine.
• Avoid consuming anything other than water for that 45 mins post-medication period.
• If you miss taking the thyroxine medication, it is necessary to take a double dose of thyroxine on the following day on an empty stomach.
• Avoid soybean products for up to 4 hours after taking thyroxine.
• Check TSH levels every three months. Generally, the TSH level should be in the range of 0.5 - 4.5 mIU/L, Depending on individual variation, follow the Endocrinologist's recommendation for medication.
• Thyroxine absorption can be affected by gastric acidity. Avoid taking thyroxine with acidity medications. If both need to be taken, take thyroxine in the morning and acidity medication before lunch or dinner. Also, avoid taking acidity medication for an extended period.
• If you are taking calcium/iron supplements along with thyroxine, take them after lunch or at bedtime.
• If any symptoms of hypothyroidism/hyperthyroidism are observed, consult an Endocrinologist.
• Do not change the brand or dosage of the medication without consulting you Endocrinologist.

What effect does hypothyroidism have on pregnancy?

If hypothyroidism is left untreated after diagnosis, it poses a risk to both the mother and the fetus during pregnancy.

During the first three months of pregnancy, the fetus is entirely dependent on the mother's thyroid hormone. In the first three months, the baby's own thyroid hormones are not yet produced.

Hypothyroidism in the mother can have various effects on the mother, fetus, and child. The following are potential outcomes

Mother

High blood pressure, anemia, congestive heart failure, postpartum hemorrhage.

Fetus

Premature birth, stillbirth, developmental issues.

Baby

Low birth weight, lower IQ, incomplete growth.

As per the American Thyroid Association guidelines, the following are the TSH targets to maintain during pregnancy

• Planning Pregnancy ≤ 2.5 mIU/L
• 1 st Trimester ≤ 2.5 mIU/L
• 2nd & 3 rd Trimester ≤ 3 mIU/L

Although pregnant women should take the thyroxine dose as recommended, the thyroxine dose may need to be increased by up to 30% during pregnancy. Because, thyroxine hormone needs to be provided by the mother to the developing fetus.

If the thyroid levels are maintained properly before and throughout the pregnancy according to your qualified Endocrinologist, your pregnancy will be without any complications.

Hyperthyroidism

Although hyperthyroidism is rare, it is more severe and affects you more dramatically. Though it is less common, it also affects your organs and bones more severely

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may be at risk of hyperthyroidism:

• Weight loss despite excess hunger
• Excessive sweating
• Restlessness
• Swelling in the neck
• Palpitations
• Insomnia
• Tremors in the hands
• Aches in the hands and feet
• Infertility
• Prominent eyes
• Frequent Bowel Movements