By Dr. Arianna Mohiuddin
Hypothyroidism is a common, but frequently untreated, thyroid condition. Singing River endocrinologist Dr. Arianna Mohiuddin explains the condition and how it is treated.
WHAT IS HYPOTHYROIDISM?
Hypothyroidism also is referred to as underactive thyroid, and it is a condition where your thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. These hormones regulate your metabolism, heart rate, body temperature and various other functions.
Think of your body’s metabolism as an engine, and your thyroid as the gas pedal. When you have hypothyroidism, it is like having a gas pedal stuck on low. Your body slows down, and it is struggling to keep pace with its usual rhythm.
Hypothyroidism is incredibly common and affects approximately 5-10 % of the general population.
SYMPTOMS OF HYPOTHYROIDISM INCLUDE:
- Fatigue and sluggishness: The most common symptom is fatigue — feeling perpetually tired, drained and lacking in energy.
- Unexplained weight gain of approximately five to 10 pounds: Even with diet and exercise, your body is just not burning calories efficiently.
- Sensitivity to cold: Your metabolism slows down heat production, and you feel chilly, even in mild temperatures.
- Dry skin and hair: Your skin might feel rough, and your hair might feel thin or become brittle.
- Brain fog and mood changes: Difficulty concentrating, memory problems and even depression can occur with hypothyroidism.
DO MANY PEOPLE HAVE HYPOTHYROIDISM BUT NOT KNOW?
Yes, absolutely. Hypothyroidism is incredibly common. Levothyroxine, which is the treatment for hypothyroidism, is among the most prescribed medications in the world.
HOW DO I FIND OUT IF I HAVE IT?
A thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test is the best initial test you can get for a hypothyroidism diagnosis. It is very easy to order the test from any primary care provider, physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner, and the results come back pretty quickly.
A “normal” TSH level depends on your specific lab, but a ballpark estimate is 0.45 to 4.5. For people who are elderly, the upper limit of normal is slightly higher. The recommendation also changes for pregnant patients.
HOW IS HYPOTHYROIDISM TREATED?
The mainstay of treatment is levothyroxine. The dose will be adjusted based on a variety of factors, such as the patient’s age, weight and the presence of coronary artery (heart) disease. Dosage regimens also change during pregnancy and with significant weight changes.
Although levothyroxine is generally very well tolerated, some people are allergic to the dye. However, dye-free pills are available. Other symptoms can include nausea and vomiting.
Another potential side effect, especially when you’re first starting, is fatigue and tiredness. Within the first few weeks, some people can experience change in their menstrual periods, diarrhea, insomnia, nervousness and anxiety.
SHOULD PEOPLE WITH HYPOTHYROIDISM ADHERE TO CERTAIN DIETS?
Generally, it should be a healthy diet, and I am a believer in the plant-based diet.
There are people who say to do keto diets, then there are those who say to do low-carb. However, based on the research I have reviewed, and recommendations from the American Heart Association, a plant-based diet is the way to go, meaning the majority of your diet should come from fruits and vegetables, as well as legumes and whole grains. Studies have shown that plant-based diets can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular issues.
CAN HYPOTHYROIDISM BE CURED?
It is considered a chronic condition, meaning that it necessitates lifelong treatment.
Some people want to be seen by a specialist, and I think that’s perfectly fine. If the option is available to you, go for it. However, because hypothyroidism is such a common condition, it can be treated very well by a primary care provider.
