HYPOTHYROIDISM Flashcards
What is primary and secondary Hypothyroidism?
Primary (95%) - insufficient production of Thyroid hormones due to autoimmune disorder
Secondary (5%) - underproduction of TSH by pituitary gland leading to unstimulated thyroid
What is the most common cause of primary hypothyroidism?
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
What is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
Condition where lymphocytes and plasma cells attack the thyroid gland causing it to be damaged and to swell
What are other causes of hypothyroidism?
Iodine Deficiency
Pregnancy
Lithium
Hyperthyroidism treatment
What are symptoms of hypothyroidism?
Fatigue
Lethargy
Cold Intolerance
Constipation
Weight gain
Menorrhagia
Myalgia
What are signs of hypothyroidism?
Dry, cold, yellowish skin
Bradycardia
Non-putting oedema
Decreased deep tendon reflexes
Carpal tunnel Syndrome
What are the blood tests and expected results for Hypothyroidism?
TFT: high TSH, low T4
SERUM CHOLESTEROL: high
FBC: mild normocytic anaemia
What is the first line treatment for Hypothyroidism?
Oral Levothyroxine
Measuring TSH after 6-8weeks and blood levels every 6months
Which signs indicated excessive amounts of TSH?
Insomnia
Increased appetite
Palpations
Shakiness
Why is Simvastatin given to a hypothyroidism patient?
Hypothyroidism can cause hypercholestrolaemia
Simvastatin = inhibit synthesis of cholesterol
What are some complications of hypothyroidism?
Heart problems
Peripheral neuropathy
Goiter
