Causes
This autoimmune disorder is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the U.S.
What is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
This term describes the puffy face, dry skin, and swelling often seen in hypothyroidism.
What is myxedema?
In primary hypothyroidism, this thyroid hormone is low, while TSH is high.
What is T4 (thyroxine)?
This synthetic thyroid hormone is the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism.
What is levothyroxine?
Severe, untreated hypothyroidism can lead to this life-threatening condition.
What is myxedema coma?
Hypothyroidism can occur after the surgical removal of this gland.
What is the thyroid gland?
Common symptom includes fatigue, weight gain, and this slowed bodily function.
What is bradycardia or slowed metabolism?
This lab test measures thyroid-stimulating hormone to assess thyroid function.
What is TSH?
The nurse teaches patients to take levothyroxine this way for best absorption
What is on an empty stomach in the morning?
This neuropsychiatric symptom may develop in hypothyroidism.
What is depression or cognitive slowing?
Deficiency of this trace element can lead to hypothyroidism
What is iodine?
Patients with hypothyroidism may complain of feeling unusually sensitive to this environmental condition.
What is cold?
In secondary hypothyroidism, TSH levels are often this.
What is low or normal?
Over-replacement of thyroid hormone can lead to this serious condition
What is hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis?
Hypothyroidism in pregnancy can cause this risk to the fetus.
What is developmental delay?
This type of hypothyroidism occurs when the pituitary gland fails to secrete enough TSH.
What is secondary hypothyroidism?
This voice-related symptom can occur due to edema of the vocal cords.
What is hoarseness?
This electrolyte imbalance may be observed in severe hypothyroidism.
What is hyponatremia?
This monitoring test is done every 6–8 weeks after starting or adjusting therapy.
What is TSH level?
Untreated hypothyroidism can worsen this metabolic condition.
What is hyperlipidemia?