How To Deal With Thyroid Disease During Pregnancy? - Part 4

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Common tests used to diagnose hyperthyroidism

• Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) produced by the pituitary [will be decreased in hyperthyroidism]
• Thyroid hormones themselves (T3, T4, T7) [will be increased]
• Iodine thyroid scan [will show if the cause is a single nodule or the whole gland]
• Special tests like scan and biopsy may be required in cases of suspected cancer.

Test to diagnose hypothyroidism

• Vital signs may reveal slow heart rate, low blood pressure and low temperature.
• A chest X ray might reveal an enlarged heart.
• Laboratory tests include T4 test (low), serum TSH (high in primary hypothyroidism, low or low-normal in secondary hypothyroidism).

Is treatment necessary?
This hormone is essential for normal body functions. When you have an under-active thyroid hormone you will automatically find yourself becoming slow, and also the blood level of cholesterol increases. Long-standing overactive thyroid can make the bones weak and the muscles thin.

Treatment

Hypothyroidism - under active

Since Hypothyroidism develops from a shortage of thyroid hormone, the most effective treatment is generally thyroid hormone supplementation.

Supplements are either natural hormones extracted from s of animals or synthetic hormones (such as levothyroxine). Both types control the problem, but the newer, synthetic forms are much more efficient and their effects are more easily regulated.

Although treatment provides the necessary hormone control, hypothyroidism often continues throughout life, and the patient may require lifelong follow-up and medication to control the condition.

Iron, for example, interferes with absorption even at doses found in multivitamins. Thyroid hormone may be broken down faster in the presence of drugs such as dilantin, tegretol and rifampin. You need to take the tablet regularly at the same time and your treating physician will decide the dose.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.