Prognosis
As a rule, the symptoms of hypothyroidism can be prevented well by daily use of the prescribed medication after a few months. The medication should be taken about half an hour before breakfast with a glass of water so as not to influence the release and absorption of the active ingredient. In the case of congenital hypothyroidism, the prognosis clearly depends on the early start of treatment after diagnosis. The earlier the therapy is started, the more reliably the late consequences of the physical as well as mental developmental delay of hypothyroidism can be prevented.
Nutrition and iodine supply – prevention of hypothyroidism
Nutrition also plays a decisive role in the prevention of hypothyroidism. Care should be taken to ensure a sufficient iodine supply through food, for example in the form of iodized table salt or regular consumption of fish. Because, as already mentioned, iodine is an essential component of thyroid hormones.
The daily amount of iodine to be ingested is about 200 micrograms. Excessive consumption of soy products should be avoided, as they can restrict the function of the thyroid hormones. A balanced supply of vitamins and magnesium can have a positive effect on the symptoms of hypothyroidism. In the most common form of hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, the hypothyroidism unfortunately cannot be compensated by an adequate iodine supply.
Hypothyroidism in pregnancy
During pregnancy, the expectant mother has an increased need for iodine. On the one hand through increased thyroid hormone production, on the other hand the unborn child is dependent on the iodine supply by the mother. From the 12th week of pregnancy onwards, the foetus then begins to produce thyroid hormones independently.
Therefore, an additional iodine supply is recommended for women with known hypothyroidism during pregnancy and lactation. Iodine tablets are available without prescription from pharmacies. However, these are not reimbursed by the health insurance company.
A known hypothyroidism, but also suspected hypothyroidism should be treated with thyroid hormones at an early stage. Physical as well as mental late effects on the unborn child can be prevented in time. As a rule, treatment of hypothyroidism with the drug L-thyroxine is safe for the child during pregnancy.
Consult your gynaecologist to adjust the dose of your medication if necessary. However, radiation or radioiodine therapy should not be used during pregnancy. If you are planning to become pregnant and have undergone the above-mentioned treatment, you should wait four to six months before becoming pregnant so as not to endanger the development of your child.
