2. INTRODUCTION
Hypothyroidism is a disorder of the endocrine
system in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough
thyroid hormone. Congenital hypothyroidism results in a
condition called cretinism.
3. INCIDENCE
In India, a population-based study done in
Cochin estimated the prevalence of hypothyroidism to be
3.9% In women, the prevalence rate was higher (11.4%)
whereas it was 6.2% in men.
4. ETIOLOGY
Autoimmune disease. The most common cause of hypo
thyroidism is an autoimmune disorder known as Hashim
oto's thyroiditis.
Over response to hyperthyroidism treatment
(Anti thyroid drugs).
Thyroid surgery.
Radiation therapy.
Medications(Anti thyroid drugs).
8. DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION
History collection.
Physical examination.
Blood tests
Diagnosis of hypothyroidism is based on symptoms
and the results of blood tests that measure the level of TSH
and sometimes the level of the thyroid hormone thyroxine. A
low level of thyroxine and high level of TSH indicate an unde
ractive thyroid.
9. MANAGEMENT
MEDICAL MANAGEMENT
Levothyroxine, thyroid hormone that influences
the growth and maturation of tissues. It is involved in n
ormal growth, metabolism, and development. Levothyr
oxine (LT4) is considered to be the drug of choice for c
lients with hypothyroidism.
10. Radio active iodine offers a more permanent option be
cause it destroys thyroid tissue.
Thyroid hormone replacement therapy:
The goal of thyroid hormone treatment is to clos
ely replicate normal thyroid functioning.
12. FOODS TO AVOID
millet: all varieties
highly processed foods: hot dogs, cakes, cookies, etc.
supplements: Adequate intakes of selenium and iodine ar
e essential for thyroid health, but getting too much of eith
er may cause harm. Only supplement with selenium and
iodine if your healthcare provider has instructed you to
do so.
13. NURSING MANAGEMENT
Monitor vital signs.
Monitor daily weight.
Maintain intake and output chart.
Observe for edema.
Monitor the intake of iodine.
Assist with self care activities.
14. If the patient is hyponatremia, hypersonic saline may b
e infused.
Provide measures to promote heat.
Encourage increased intake of fluid.
Provide foods high in fiber.
Monitor bowel function.
Explain the necessity of long term follow up to the patie
nt and family.
16. EVIDENCE BASED RESEARCH
A meta-analysis of randomized, placebo- controlled st
udies has shown benefits of selenium on both thyroid
antibody titers and mood in Hashimoto's patients.
In a study it is found out that soy foods, or isoflavones
adversely affect thyroid function