What is Hypothyroidism? Diagnosis & Treatment

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is unable to produce sufficient amounts of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones are vital hormones that contribute to many important functions of the body, such as energy utilization, growth, and development processes. Therefore, hypothyroidism can affect quality of life and lead to serious health problems when left untreated. In this article, we have written for you, What is Hypothyroidism? We will try to give information about the Diagnosis & Treatment process.

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces insufficient amounts of thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck and produces two important hormones called thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones affect the body’s use of energy, temperature regulation, growth and development. In hypothyroidism, the levels of these hormones decrease and the speed of body functions decreases due to the underactive thyroid gland.

What are the Types of Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is mainly divided into two types: primary and secondary hypothyroidism. Primary hypothyroidism occurs as a result of direct damage or loss of function of the thyroid gland. The most common cause is an autoimmune disease called Hashimoto’s disease. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland and causes it to stop functioning. Other causes include thyroid surgery, radioactive iodine treatment and inflammation of the thyroid gland.

Secondary hypothyroidism is caused by dysfunction of brain structures that regulate thyroid hormone secretion, such as the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. In this case, the thyroid gland itself is normal, but it cannot receive the stimulus to produce enough hormones.

What are the Symptoms of Hypothyroidism?

Symptoms of hypothyroidism may vary from person to person depending on the degree and duration of hormone deficiency. Initially, symptoms may be mild and may become more pronounced over time. Common symptoms of hypothyroidism can be listed as follows;

• Fatigue and weakness,
• Weight gain and loss of appetite,
• Sensitivity to cold,
• Dryness and pallor of the skin,
• Hair loss and nail breakage,
• Constipation
• Hoarseness and swelling in the neck,
• Joint and muscle pains,
• Depression and memory problems,
• Menstrual irregularities and fertility problems,

It is important for people with suspected hypothyroidism to consult their doctor and start the necessary investigations and treatments. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the effects of hypothyroidism can be controlled and quality of life can be improved.

What are the Risk Factors for Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces insufficient hormones. This condition can lead to various health problems by affecting energy production and metabolism in the body. Hypothyroidism risk factors are factors that increase the likelihood of developing this condition. Hypothyroidism risk factors can be listed as follows;

• Age and Gender,
• Family History,
• Auto Immune Diseases,
• Thyroid surgery,
• Radiation Therapy,
• Iodine Deficiency,
• Pregnancy,
• Some Medicines,

How is Hypothyroidism Tests and Diagnosis Performed?

Hypothyroidism can be diagnosed by the patient’s symptoms, physical examination and laboratory tests. Hypothyroidism tests and diagnosis process can be explained as follows;

The doctor tries to detect abnormal growths or nodules by checking the patient’s neck area and thyroid gland.

Blood tests measuring TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) and T4 (Thyroxine) levels are performed to evaluate thyroid function. High TSH and low T4 levels are important clues for the diagnosis of hypothyroidism.

In cases of hypothyroidism caused by autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, the level of thyroid antibodies is measured.

How is hypothyroidism treated?

Hypothyroidism treatment is usually done using synthetic hormone drugs that mimic thyroid hormones.

The most commonly used drug in the treatment of hypothyroidism is levothyroxine. This drug replaces the deficient thyroid hormones, making the body’s energy production and metabolism smooth.

Levothyroxine dosage is determined according to the patient’s age, weight, gender and thyroid hormone levels. Starting with a low dose at first, dose adjustments are made under the control of a doctor.

During the hypothyroidism treatment process, it is important for patients to have regular blood tests to check TSH and T4 levels. In this way, drug dosage and treatment processes can be managed more effectively.

In addition to hypothyroidism treatment, it is important for patients to support their energy levels and general health with lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress management.

Does Hypothyroidism Make You Gain Weight and How Should You Eat?

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces insufficient amounts of thyroid hormone. This causes metabolic processes in the body to slow down, which can lead to weight gain. Weight gain is often seen in people with hypothyroidism and this can negatively affect the quality of life. Therefore, it is important for hypothyroid patients to pay attention to their eating habits.

Some suggestions on how hypothyroid patients should eat can be listed as follows. However, it will be important for you to consult with a nutritionist before applying these recommendations.

Protein is the building block of cells in the body and helps maintain the metabolic rate. It is recommended that hypothyroid patients meet approximately 20%-30% of their daily energy needs from proteins.

Fibre foods support digestive system health and contribute to energy balance. Consumption of fibrous foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes should be increased.

Drinking enough water can increase the metabolic rate of hypothyroid patients and help with weight control. Care should be taken to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day.

Iodine is necessary for the production of thyroid hormones. It is important for hypothyroid patients to use iodized salt and consume iodine-rich foods such as seafood.

Consuming low-calorie and nutritious foods helps with weight control. Care should be taken to consume a variety of foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein sources and healthy fats.

Caffeine and alcohol can affect the levels of thyroid hormones. Therefore, it is recommended that hypothyroid patients limit their caffeine and alcohol consumption.

Is Hypothyroidism Dangerous?

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces insufficient amounts of thyroid hormone and is usually a treatable condition. However, untreated or irregularly treated hypothyroidism can lead to serious health problems. Whether hypothyroidism is dangerous depends on the person’s age, general health, and the severity of hypothyroidism.

Possible complications of hypothyroidism include;

• Cardiovascular problems,
• Mental health problems,
• Complications of pregnancy,
• Myxedema coma,

To ensure that hypothyroidism is not dangerous, it is important to have regular medical check-ups and to follow the treatment plan recommended by the doctor. In this way, the quality of life can be maintained in high quality of life by protecting against possible complications of hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism Treatment Prices in Turkey

Turkey has managed to announce its name to the world with its investments and studies in the field of health. Especially the latest technological devices used in diagnosis and treatment procedures have been a beacon of hope for many diseases. However, there has been an increase in health tourism in Türkiye.

• Hospitals are large, clean, spacious and fully equipped in terms of technological equipment.
• Turkish doctors are specialized, successful, and skilled in their fields.
• Nurses and carers are friendly and compassionate.
• Finding answers to the questions asked quickly and accurately.
• Patience and understanding of all staff, including the intermediary company dealing with the patient.
• Turkey offers holiday opportunities with its natural and historical beauties.
• Easy transportation.
• Diagnosis, treatment, accommodation, eating, drinking, dressing, and holiday needs can be met at affordable prices.

Such situations are shown among the reasons for preference. We can see that patients and relatives of patients who want to come to Turkey are doing research on Hypothyroidism Treatment Prices in Turkey. However, it would not be right to give clear price information at this stage. Many factors such as the type of disease, stage, diagnosis process, treatment process, and stay in Türkiye affect the price issue. If you want to get more detailed price information, you can contact us. In addition, if you come to Turkey for treatment through us, we can facilitate your visa application process with the invitation letter sent by us to the consulate.