Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. The thyroid hormone is important for regulating metabolism and many other functions in the body. When left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to serious health problems. Here we will explore what can happen if hypothyroidism goes untreated.
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland, located at the front of the neck, does not produce enough thyroid hormone. The thyroid hormone regulates many bodily functions including:
- Metabolism
- Heart rate
- Body temperature
- Mood
- Menstrual cycles
When the thyroid does not produce enough hormone, all of these functions slow down. There are a few different causes of hypothyroidism including:
- Hashimoto’s disease – an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid
- Thyroiditis – inflammation of the thyroid
- Congenital hypothyroidism – an underactive thyroid present from birth
- Surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid
- Radiation treatment of the thyroid
- Certain medications
Women over age 60 are at the highest risk of developing hypothyroidism. It also frequently occurs in pregnant women or women who have recently given birth.
Signs and symptoms
The signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism develop gradually over time. At first, they may be so mild that they are not easily noticed. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Unexplained weight gain
- Puffy face
- Hoarseness
- Muscle weakness
- Elevated blood cholesterol level
- Muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness
- Pain, stiffness or swelling in joints
- Heavier than normal menstrual periods
- Thinning hair
- Slowed heart rate
- Depression
- Impaired memory
As hypothyroidism progresses, symptoms can become more severe:
- Goiter – enlarged thyroid gland in the neck
- Puffy face and hands
- Hoarse voice
- Elevated blood cholesterol levels
- Thick, dry skin
- Thin and brittle hair and nails
- Slow speech and movements
- Depression
- Irritability or impaired memory
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers
Infants born with congenital hypothyroidism can show signs such as jaundice, constant crying, constipation and having a large tongue.
Complications from untreated hypothyroidism
If left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to a number of health problems:
Goiter
The lack of thyroid hormones causes the thyroid to become enlarged and form a goiter. A goiter is a visible, non-cancerous enlargement in the lower front part of the neck.
Heart problems
Hypothyroidism can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. It can also lead to an enlarged heart or heart failure in some cases.
Mental health problems
Untreated hypothyroidism can cause mental health issues including:
- Depression
- Forgetfulness and impaired memory
- Confusion
- Psychosis
Birth defects
If a pregnant woman has untreated hypothyroidism, her baby is at an increased risk of birth defects. Poor thyroid hormone control during pregnancy can lead to developmental delays, intellectual disability, and growth problems in the baby.
Infertility
Untreated hypothyroidism can disrupt normal ovulation and menstrual cycles in women. This can make it difficult to become pregnant.
Miscarriage
Women with untreated hypothyroidism during pregnancy are at higher risk of miscarriage and stillbirth.
Peripheral neuropathy
When thyroid hormone levels are low, nerve damage can occur leading to numbness and tingling in the fingers and toes.
Myxedema coma
Myxedema coma is a rare but life-threatening complication of untreated severe hypothyroidism. Extremely low thyroid hormones cause the body temperature to drop to dangerously low levels. This can lead to seizures, heart problems, and respiratory depression. Myxedema coma requires immediate emergency treatment.
How is hypothyroidism diagnosed?
Hypothyroidism is diagnosed through a simple blood test to measure thyroid hormone levels. The main hormones that are tested are:
- TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) – produced by the pituitary gland to stimulate the thyroid. High TSH indicates hypothyroidism.
- T4 (thyroxine) – the main hormone produced by the thyroid gland. Low T4 indicates hypothyroidism.
Additional tests may look at thyroid antibodies to determine if Hashimoto’s disease is the cause. Your doctor may also perform an ultrasound or scan of the thyroid to look for enlargement or nodules.
Treatment for hypothyroidism
Fortunately, hypothyroidism is easily treated with a daily oral medication. The most common medication is synthetic thyroxine, also called levothyroxine (Levoxyl, Synthroid, Tirosint, Unithroid). This replaces the T4 hormone that your thyroid is not making enough of.
With proper treatment, the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism will gradually resolve. Treatment needs to be continued for life. Your doctor will monitor your hormone levels with periodic blood tests to make sure your medication dosage is adequate.
With medication, people with hypothyroidism can manage their symptoms and avoid complications. Close monitoring and compliance with treatment helps ensure thyroid hormone levels remain in the normal range.
Lifestyle changes to manage hypothyroidism
In addition to medication, the following healthy lifestyle habits can help manage hypothyroidism:
- Eat a balanced diet – Choose nutrient rich whole foods like vegetables, fruits, lean proteins and whole grains. Avoid processed foods.
- Increase fiber intake – Constipation is common with hypothyroidism. Fiber helps maintain bowel regularity.
- Engage in regular exercise – This helps manage weight and improves energy levels.
- Adequate sleep – Get 7-8 hours per night, lack of sleep exacerbates fatigue.
- Reduce stress – Make time for relaxing activities, get massages, meditate.
- Supplements – Selenium, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D may provide added support.
Conclusion
Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to many complications that impact physical and mental health. Fortunately, with proper treatment and monitoring, people with hypothyroidism can avoid these issues and maintain a healthy quality of life. The importance of early diagnosis through thyroid testing and sticking to a treatment plan cannot be overstated for those with hypothyroidism.