Symptoms of an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) typically develop slowly but tend to worsen as your metabolism and organ function slow due to a lack of thyroid hormones.
This can lead to various symptoms, such as fatigue and a slowed heartbeat, which are sometimes hard to quantify because they point to multiple possibilities. Fortunately, once diagnosed, hypothyroidism is fairly easy to manage.
Dr. Kadie E. Leach is an internal medicine specialist who serves the metropolitan area of Washington, DC, from her office in Landham, Maryland. She offers primary care services, including management of hypothyroidism, for adults interested in comprehensive, top-level care that’s personalized to meet their needs.
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. This compromises the normal function of many vital systems.
For instance, when the thyroid is underactive, blood vessels around the heart stiffen, reducing blood flow. Without adequate thyroid hormone, the heart pumps less forcefully, eventually weakening the muscle.
Additionally, a lack of thyroid hormone can prevent the heart from relaxing between beats. This causes the heart’s chambers to stiffen, leading to diastolic dysfunction and heart failure over time.
Other potential health complications of untreated hypothyroidism include:
Because of the thyroid gland’s location, a goiter can grow large enough to cause difficulty swallowing.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism are initially subtle and often easy to ignore. Eventually, however, you may notice:
If you’re experiencing these symptoms or Dr. Leach suspects thyroid issues, she may suggest a blood test that measures your thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level and a thyroid hormone called thyroxine (T4).
TSH, initiated by the hypothalamus and produced in the pituitary gland, triggers the thyroid gland to produce more hormones.
A high TSH level and low T4 level indicate that the thyroid gland is producing less hormone than the body needs to maintain metabolism and cellular function.
Fortunately, hypothyroidism is fairly easily managed. The standard treatment involves taking daily thyroid hormone medication, such as levothyroxine, to restore hormone levels.
Dr. Leach monitors your blood levels and adjusts your medication if necessary. Initially, she may order lab tests more frequently to ensure optimal treatment and symptom relief, but thyroid labs eventually become part of your yearly screening.
When you come for your thyroid appointments, Dr. Leach also checks your thyroid by feeling its size and shape. A large goiter causing symptoms such as difficulty swallowing may require surgery. Notably, most goiters are benign (noncancerous), but an enlarged thyroid gland can indicate cancer and typically requires imaging studies.
Schedule a visit with Dr. Leach today for all your primary care needs, including thyroid monitoring and treatment when necessary. Call the office or request an appointment online.
