Hypothyroidism: symptoms, treatment, and more

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland, located in the front of the neck, doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones to meet the body's needs. Thyroid hormones are crucial for regulating various bodily functions, including metabolism, energy production, and maintaining overall health.

Hypothyroidism symptoms

• Fatigue

• Weight gain

• Cold sensitivity

• Dry skin and hair

• Constipation

• Depression

• Muscle weakness

• Joint pain

• Irregular menstrual periods

• Hoarseness

• Puffy face

• Elevated cholesterol

• Memory problems

Causes of hypothyroidism 

• Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. In Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and gradual destruction of thyroid tissue.

• A lack of iodine in the diet can lead to an underactive thyroid. However, iodine deficiency-induced hypothyroidism is relatively rare in regions where iodine is adequately supplemented in the diet.

• If someone has undergone thyroid surgery or radiation therapy to the neck, the thyroid gland's ability to produce hormones may be compromised, leading to hypothyroidism.

• Some medications, such as lithium, amiodarone, and certain cancer treatments, can interfere with thyroid function and cause hypothyroidism.

• In some cases, babies are born with an underactive thyroid due to a genetic development of the thyroid gland.

• Hypothyroidism can also result from a malfunction of the pituitary gland, which produces thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). If the pituitary gland fails to release sufficient TSH, the thyroid may not produce enough hormones.

• Certain viral or bacterial infections can temporarily or, in rare cases, permanently affect thyroid function.

• As people age, the risk of developing hypothyroidism increases, primarily due to natural changes in thyroid function.

Treating hypothyroidism

• Levothyroxine medication: The most common and widely used medication for treating hypothyroidism is levothyroxine. This medication is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). It is typically taken as an oral tablet and works by supplementing the deficient thyroid hormones in the body.

• Individualized dosage: The dosage of levothyroxine is determined by a healthcare provider based on the patient's specific needs. It's important to find the right dosage to achieve normal thyroid hormone levels, and this often involves regular blood tests to monitor thyroid function.

• Consistency in medication: Patients are generally advised to take levothyroxine at the same time each day and on an empty stomach. It's essential to take the medication consistently to maintain stable thyroid hormone levels.

• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments and blood tests are necessary to monitor thyroid hormone levels and adjust the medication dosage as needed. Thyroid function can change over time, so ongoing monitoring is crucial.

• Lifestyle and diet: Some lifestyle factors, such as dietary choices and certain medications, can affect the absorption of levothyroxine. It's important to discuss any potential interactions or lifestyle changes with a healthcare provider.

• Avoid over-the-counter supplements: Some dietary supplements and over-the-counter medications can interfere with levothyroxine absorption. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider before taking any new supplements or medications.

• Other medications: In rare cases, individuals may be prescribed a combination of levothyroxine and liothyronine (T3) to achieve a more precise balance of thyroid hormones. However, this is less common and is typically reserved for specific situations.

Consult with your endocrinologist before making significant lifestyle modifications to your diet or exercise routine, as they can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific condition and treatment plan.

Foods to avoid with hypothyroidism

Individuals with hypothyroidism should be mindful of their diet, as certain foods and substances can interfere with thyroid function or the absorption of thyroid medication. Here are some foods and substances to consider avoiding or consuming in moderation if you have hypothyroidism:

• Soy products, including soybeans, tofu, and soy-based foods, contain compounds called goitrogens that can interfere with thyroid function. Cooking soy-based foods can reduce their goitrogenic effects, but it's wise to consume them in moderation.

• Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts also contain goitrogens. While these vegetables have numerous health benefits, it's advisable to cook them and consume them in moderation, especially if they are a significant part of your diet.

• Millet is a grain that contains goitrogens and may affect thyroid function. Reducing millet consumption is recommended.

• Highly processed foods, especially those with a high salt content, may have a negative impact on thyroid health. Excessive sodium intake can disrupt thyroid hormone production. Reducing processed foods and limiting salt intake can be beneficial.

• While dietary fiber is generally healthy, excessive consumption of fiber can interfere with the absorption of thyroid medication. It's important to maintain a balanced diet and not overdo fiber intake.

• Excessive caffeine consumption, particularly from coffee, may interfere with the absorption of thyroid medication. It's best to separate the intake of caffeine and thyroid medication by at least an hour.

• Calcium supplements and calcium-rich foods should not be taken at the same time as thyroid medication, as they can reduce medication absorption. Allow a few hours between calcium consumption and taking your medication.

• Excessive alcohol consumption can affect thyroid function and interact with thyroid medication. It's advisable to consume alcohol in moderation.

• High doses of iron, whether from food or supplements, can interfere with thyroid medication absorption. It's essential to take iron supplements separately from thyroid medication and, if necessary, discuss iron intake with a healthcare provider.