The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland located beneath the skin at the front of the neck. It is part of the endocrine system and secretes hormones, including thyroxine (T4), triiodothyronine (T3), reverse triiodothyronine (RT3), and calcitonin. The thyroid hormones affect several functions of the human body, including heart rate, breathing, digestion, mental activity, brain development, body temperature, and fertility.
Many problems may arise when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones, a condition known as hypothyroidism. In recent years, researchers have gained a deeper understanding of the role of the thyroid glands in sexual health. Fortunately, medicines and thyroid therapies help restore sexual function.
Dr. Kamaraj Hospital for Men’s Health and Wellness is dedicated to identifying and providing the necessary thyroid therapies.
Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. It affects about 11% of the Indian population. It can cause a slowdown in bodily functions and lead to a reduction in sex hormones like testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).
The symptoms of hypothyroidism can present differently in males and females:
The side effects of thyroid medication differ from person to person. Common side effects associated with most treatments and medications include:
The symptoms of hypothyroidism vary from person to person and often overlap with those of other health conditions. For this reason, diagnosis of hypothyroidism becomes complex and is usually done through blood tests.
If both TSH and T-4 levels are low, then the patient has hypothyroidism. If TSH levels are high but T-4 and T-3 levels are normal, the patient may have subclinical hypothyroidism, a condition that often has no noticeable symptoms.
2. Thyroid Imaging Tests: Doctors may also use imaging tests, such as CT scans (computed tomography), to determine the size and position of the thyroid gland.
Some common treatment approaches for thyroid conditions are:
These medications prevent the thyroid gland from producing excess thyroid hormones, commonly used for hyperthyroidism.
This treatment uses radioactive iodine to destroy thyroid cells, reducing excess hormone production in cases of hyperthyroidism.
These medications help treat symptoms of thyroid conditions, such as rapid heart rate and anxiety associated with hyperthyroidism.
This is the primary treatment for hypothyroidism, where the thyroid does not produce enough hormones.
In severe cases, surgery to remove the thyroid may be recommended. This requires lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
The side effects of thyroid medication differ from person to person. Common side effects associated with most treatments and medications include:
Patients should seek medical attention immediately if they experience severe symptoms, such as extreme fatigue or rashes.
At KHPL, we use a well-structured and personalised approach to treating hypothyroidism.
We begin with a detailed consultation, during which medical specialists gather information about symptoms and family history and conduct the necessary tests.
After a thorough consultation and evaluation, our medical specialists develop a personalised treatment plan for your condition. This plan could involve thyroid hormone replacement, medications, thyroid therapies, or surgeries.
We monitor your progress of thyroid therapy at every stage, make necessary adjustments, and plan regular follow-up sessions for optimal results.
Thyroid disorders can be caused by autoimmune diseases, thyroid surgery, certain medications, iodine deficiencies, or congenital conditions. Other health issues like Celiac disease, lupus, and pernicious anaemia may also impact thyroid function.
Hypothyroidism symptoms may include fatigue, memory problems, depression, erectile dysfunction, low libido, weight gain, muscle and joint pain, and more.
Thyroid disorders are typically diagnosed through blood tests (like TSH, T-3, and T-4 levels) and imaging scans such as ultrasounds or radioactive iodine uptake tests.
Treatment options for hypothyroidism may vary based on the individual and the severity of the disorder. They may include medication, surgery, thyroid hormone replacement, and other approaches.
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