Question

Explain what hypothyroidism and include its pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment.

Explain hyperthyroidism and include its pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment

Answer 1

Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism both are caused due to the malfunctioning of a thyroid gland of an endocrine system.

Hypothyroidism is caused due to low-level secretion of thyroxin by thyroid glands. This causes cold intolerance, tiredness, weight gain. In children, low levels of thyroid hormone cause cretinism that shows delayed mental and physical growth. Clinically hypothyroidism is confirmed by blood test in which levels of TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone), thyroxine are measured. The treatment actions include to normalize the thyroxine and TSH levels in the blood. Levothyroxine is administered to the patient. Another important and the most common cause of hypothyroidism is the iodine deficiency. So the increase in levels of iodine in the diet also helps in hypothyroid treatment.

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which there is an excess production of thyroxin occurs. This causes irritability, muscle cramps, sleeplessness, faster heartbeats, heat intolerance, diarrhea, enlargement of the thyroid gland, and weight loss. Clinically hyperthyroidism is diagnosed by measuring the levels of thyroxine and TSH in the blood. A low or negligible level of TSH and high levels of thyroxine indicate Hyperthyroidism. A Thyroid scan, Thyroid stimulating immunoglobin (TSI), administration of radioiodine are also performed. Treatment for hyperthyroidism includes radioiodine therapy, doses of methimazole, and in extreme cases removal of thyroid gland.