Basic Information
Thyroid diseases are more common than diabetes or heart disease. The incidence of hypothyroidism in women is higher than in men, and it hits hardest during pregnancy, mid-life, and older age. Symptoms of Hypothyroidism are usually vague and go unnoticed for years together. Thyroid diseases can affect every system and cell in the body, leaving it vulnerable to heart disease, osteoporosis, and other illnesses. The American Thyroid Association recommends that everyone over 35 years, especially women, be screened for thyroid disorders.
Available Thyroid Function Tests
Thyroid screening:
Serum TSH, Free T4 & Free T3 Detailed Thyroid profile: Serum TSH, Free T4, Free T3 & Thyroid Abs: Anti TPO & Anti TG
Joint Pains Cold Intolerance Slow Heartbeat Forgetfulness Coarse &
Weight Loss Sweating Moist Palms Hair Loss Bulging Eyes Weakness
Rapid Pulse Nervousness Tremors in Hands Irritability Infertility Enlarged Thyroid Scanty Periods Frequent Bowel Movements
A significant number of patients who are screened for thyroid disease have marginally increased serum TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) levels, but their Free Thyroxine (T4) levels are within normal limits. This condition is, termed "subclinical hypothyroidism", which is an early stage of Hypothyroidism and is common in women and older persons. This condition's symptoms, which is usually fatigue and constipation, are usually ignored, thinking that they are because of ageing. Thyroid Antibodies (Anti TPO & TG) test should be performed on all such cases.
Algorithm for the Management of Subclinical Hypothyroidism
Normal Free T4 level & High TSH level
TSH >10 μU per mL
TSH 5 to 10 μU per mL