Hypothyroidism, medically called hypothyroidism, is characterized by an inadequate supply of the body with the hormones produced by the thyroid gland. However, the individual reason for the hypothyroidism can be different. In principle, there are two different forms of hypothyroidism.
The so-called primary hypothyroidism describes a disorder in which the function of the thyroid gland itself is disturbed. If there is a lack of stimulation of the pituitary gland‘s hormone production, the hypothyroidism is also called secondary hypothyroidism. Which form of hypothyroidism is present in each individual case can be determined on the basis of blood values.
Depending on which form of hypofunction exists, further diagnostics must take place to find the cause of the disease. The control of the so-called thyroid gland values is a relatively frequent examination of the blood for the hormones that are produced in the thyroid gland. It is also important to check the so-called TSH (thyrotropin) value in order to be able to distinguish between primary and secondary hypothyroidism. Depending on which values are increased or decreased, it can be concluded that primary or secondary hypothyroidism is present and, if necessary, appropriate therapy can be initiated.
Symptoms
Indications that the thyroid gland values may be abnormally altered may be certain symptoms. If the thyroid gland is underactive, the main symptoms are fatigue, weight gain and loss of appetite. Other, non-specific symptoms such as conspicuous dryness of the skin, hair loss or cold intolerance are additional indications that an underactive thyroid is present.
If one or more symptoms are present for a long period of time without other explainable causes, a doctor should be consulted for a blood test. The examination of the thyroid gland values is usually carried out by a general practitioner, a specialist for internal medicine or an endocrinologist. A blood sample must be taken for this.
The collected blood is sent to a laboratory where it is examined for values that are of interest for thyroid function. The examination is usually paid for by the health insurance company if the symptoms are appropriate. After a few days the values of the examination should be available at the attending physician and the result should be discussed with the patient. Since hypothyroidism can be clearly determined by the blood values, no further diagnosis is usually necessary. Only in exceptional cases, for example if the pituitary gland is responsible for the altered values, may it be necessary to carry out a subsequent diagnosis.