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Hypothyroidism is common in pregnancy with an estimated prevalence of 2-3% and 0.3-0.5% for subclinical and overt hypothyroidism respectively. [8] Endemic iodine deficiency accounts for most hypothyroidism in pregnant women worldwide while chronic autoimmune thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in iodine sufficient parts of the world.
Neonatal hypothyroidism has been reported in cases of infants exposed to lithium, a mood stabilizer used to treat bipolar disorder, in utero. [4] In some instances, hypothyroidism detected by screening may be transient. One common cause of this is the presence of maternal antibodies that temporarily impair thyroid function for several weeks. [5]
Hypothyroidism (also called underactive thyroid, low thyroid or hypothyreosis) is a disorder of the endocrine system in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. [3] It can cause a number of symptoms, such as poor ability to tolerate cold , extreme fatigue, muscle aches , constipation , slow heart rate , depression , and ...
Iodine deficiency causes gradual enlargement of the thyroid gland, referred to as a goiter. Poor length growth is apparent as early as the first year of life. Adult stature without treatment ranges from 100 to 160 cm (3 ft 3 in to 5 ft 3 in), depending on severity, sex, and other genetic factors.
Furthermore, reviewing their medications and dietary supplements is important, as several medications can affect thyroid hormone levels. [14] Levothyroxine is also used to treat subclinical hypothyroidism, which is defined by an elevated TSH level and a normal-range free T 4 level without symptoms. [14]
Side effects of thyroid replacement therapy are associated with "inadequate or excessive doses." [22] Symptoms to watch for include, but are not limited to, anxiety, tremor, weight loss, heat sensitivity, diarrhea, and shortness of breath. More worrisome symptoms include atrial fibrillation and bone density loss. [22]
Certain medications can have the unintended side effect of affecting thyroid function. While some medications can lead to significant hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism and those at risk will need to be carefully monitored, some medications may affect thyroid hormone lab tests without causing any symptoms or clinical changes, and may not require treatment.
Desiccated thyroid extract (DTE), is thyroid gland that has been dried and powdered for medical use. [1] It is used to treat hypothyroidism, [1] but less preferred than levothyroxine. [1] It is taken by mouth. [1] Maximal effects may take up to three weeks to occur. [1] Side effects may occur from excessive doses. [1]