Thyroid Therapy

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.

treatment for low thyroid

Hypothyroidism

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:

  • Hypothyroidism in Males: The causes of hypothyroidism in men and women are usually similar. Symptoms in men include sexual dysfunction (such as erectile dysfunction, low libido, and delayed ejaculation), low testosterone, hair loss, muscle cramps, and weakness.
  • Hypothyroidism in Females: Hypothyroidism is more common in women than in men and can cause problems like irregular menstruation, weight gain, infertility, sexual dysfunction, hair loss, and dry skin.

Conditions Treated with Thyroid Therapy

The side effects of thyroid medication differ from person to person. Common side effects associated with most treatments and medications include:

  • Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce enough hormones. It affects about 11% of the Indian population. It can slow down bodily functions and reduce sex hormones such as testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). This can lower libido and cause symptoms such as erectile dysfunction (ED) and ejaculatory dysfunction in males. Treatments for low thyroid are required to manage these effects.
  • Hyperthyroidism: Hyperthyroidism is a disorder in which the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormone, also known as "overactive thyroid." It can boost metabolism, causing weight loss, rapid and irregular heartbeats, and hand tremors. Fluctuations in thyroid hormone production can also disrupt testosterone production, sperm density and motility, causing erectile dysfunction and infertility.
  • Thyroiditis: Thyroiditis is a disorder characterised by thyroid gland inflammation (or swelling). It can start with hyperthyroidism, followed by chronic, long-term hypothyroidism.
hypothyroidism treatment

Diagnostic Tests for Thyroid

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.

  1. Thyroid Blood Tests: Several blood tests can help diagnose and measure hypothyroidism. These include:
  • TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) Test: A blood test that measures thyroid-stimulating hormone, or TSH levels. If TSH levels are high, further tests will be done to measure the thyroid hormones T-4 (thyroxine) and, in some cases, T-3 (triiodothyronine).
  • T-4: It measures the level of thyroxine in the blood.
  • T-3: It measures the amount of triiodothyronine in the blood.

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.

Treatments for Thyroid Conditions

Some common treatment approaches for thyroid conditions are:

Antithyroid Drugs

These medications prevent the thyroid gland from producing excess thyroid hormones, commonly used for hyperthyroidism.

Radioiodine Therapy

This treatment uses radioactive iodine to destroy thyroid cells, reducing excess hormone production in cases of hyperthyroidism.

Beta-blockers

These medications help treat symptoms of thyroid conditions, such as rapid heart rate and anxiety associated with hyperthyroidism.

Thyroid Hormone Replacement

This is the primary treatment for hypothyroidism, where the thyroid does not produce enough hormones.

Surgery

In severe cases, surgery to remove the thyroid may be recommended. This requires lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

Side Effects of Thyroid Therapy

The side effects of thyroid medication differ from person to person. Common side effects associated with most treatments and medications include:

  • Tiredness
  • Changes in appetite
  • Increased sweating
  • Headache
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Rashes
  • Diarrhoea

Patients should seek medical attention immediately if they experience severe symptoms, such as extreme fatigue or rashes.

The Process of Hypothyroidism Treatment at KHPL

At KHPL, we use a well-structured and personalised approach to treating hypothyroidism.

Step 1: Consultation and Diagnosis

We begin with a detailed consultation, during which medical specialists gather information about symptoms and family history and conduct the necessary tests.

Step 2: Develop a Treatment Plan

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.

Step 3: Regular Support and Follow-Up

We monitor your progress of thyroid therapy at every stage, make necessary adjustments, and plan regular follow-up sessions for optimal results.

Why Choose Dr. Kamaraj Hospital?

At Dr. Kamaraj Hospital, we are committed to providing exceptional care for thyroid disorders. Dr. Kamaraj and his team combine their expertise with advanced medical facilities to effectively manage your condition. We develop personalised care plans that prioritise your health and well-being at every stage.

We take the time to understand each patient’s unique needs, creating customised treatment plans that support both physical and emotional well-being

Best Sexologist in Chennai Dr. Kamaraj

Need more information?

Don’t let thyroid disorders disrupt your health and life.

FAQ

What causes thyroid disorders?

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.

Meet Our Doctor

Best Sexologist in Chennai Dr. T Kamaraj

Dr. T. Kamaraj

Sexologist & Male Infertility Specialist

MBBS degree and advanced qualifications in obstetrics and gynaecology
Infertility Specialist Dr. J S Jeyarani Kamaraj

Dr. J. S. Jeyarani Kamaraj

Infertility Specialist

MBBS degree and advanced qualifications in obstetrics and genecology, including an MD and a Diploma in Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGO)