Hypothyroidism is one of the commonest problems faced by women where in there is decreased production of hormones by the thyroid gland, characterized by lowered cellular metabolism, including low basal body temperatures and unexplained weight gain. Hypothyroidism carries serious physical and mental risks for all ages. Depression is common in hypothyroidism and can be severe.

Symptoms:

Some of the common symptoms of hypothyroidism are – Accumulation of fluid under the eye, sensitivity to cold, aching muscles fatigue, weakness, exhaustion, poor memory, dry hair, hair loss, skin problems, brittle nails, depression, mood swings, constipation, weight gain or weight loss, PMS, muscle cramps, joint stiffness, insomnia and tingling in the hands and feet, cold body, women may suffer from heavy or irregular periods and premenstrual symptoms and infertility.

Causes:

Thyroid gland failure, failure of mechanisms that tell the thyroid to secrete its hormones, and failure of the body tissues to use thyroid hormones effectively.

Diagnosis:

A blood test for thyroid hormones-T3, T4, and TSH can determine if you have hypothyroidism. Also some times it may be necessary to do thyroid scanning to confirm the diagnosis

Infertility:

Thyroid dysfunction is known to affect all aspects of reproductive function in the female. Thyroid hypofunction affects menstrual cycle and ovulation. This is a common cause of female infertility.

Hypothyroidism and Pregnancy:

Because many of the symptoms of normal pregnancy such as weight gain, fatigue and swelling overlap with the symptoms of hypothyroidism, it may be difficult to make this diagnosis if you are pregnant. Hormone tests will make this diagnosis with certainty.

Hypothyroidism is treated with thyroid hormone medication in pregnant and non-pregnant persons alike. This treatment is safe for the developing baby because it can not cross the placenta into the baby’s bloodstream. Although the causes of hypothyroidism include several different types of thyroid illnesses, the treatment with thyroid hormone medication is the same. Only tiny amounts of thyroid hormone medication are excreted in breast milk. Therefore there is no danger to the newborn baby if you are breast feeding. In addition, it is important to have normal thyroid function in order to produce an adequate supply of breast milk.

Treatment

Some foods like peanuts, cabbage, mustard and turnips inhabit the absorption of Iodine. Hence persons suffering from hypothyroidism should avoid these foods. Foods like Almonds, wheat germs are helpful in tackling hypothyroidism. Thyroxin hormone replacement therapy, food supplement like vitamin B1, 2,3,5,6, coenzyme Q10, Magnesium, Chromium, selenium, zinc, iodine, will help patients suffering from hypothyroidism

Conclusion

Fortunately, hypothyroidism is now easily diagnosed, and treatment will restore normal thyroid function and relieve symptoms and physical signs of the disease. With treatment, a patient should expect to live a normal life, free of harmful consequences.

Dr. C. SHARATH KUMAR
Director & Specialist in Male & Female Fertility
Mediwave I.V.F & Fertility Research Hospital
City X-ray Complex, Sayyaji Rao Road,
Mysuru-570 001
Phone: 0821-2444441 / 4255019

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