Symptoms
The symptoms of hypothyroidism can vary in severity and may not always be present. Due to the slowed metabolic processes, the body runs on low flame. The typical symptoms of an underactive thyroid include fatigue and loss of performance, weight gain without changing eating habits, increased sensitivity to cold, dry rough skin, hair loss due to the underactive gland, low pulse rate or constipation.
Externally, an underactive thyroid gland can lead to so-called myxedema. In this case, the subcutaneous tissue is distended by multiple sugar deposits in the connective tissue, which can lead to swelling at any part of the body. In addition, the fat metabolism can be affected, which increases the risk of vascular calcification with diseases of the cardiovascular system.
In addition, hypothyroidism can lead to depressive moods, menstrual disorders in women or sexual unwillingness in both sexes. Particularly in older patients, the symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as an increased sensation of cold, a drop in performance and depressive moods are often mistakenly misinterpreted as signs of old age. In newborns and infants, a lack of exercise, unwillingness to drink, weakened reflexes, constipation, as well as neonatal jaundice that lasts longer than its natural state can be indications of hypothyroidism.
Acquired hypothyroidism develops insidiously and is often initially accompanied by minor symptoms. For this reason, hypothyroidism is usually only recognized in an advanced stage. Children are noticed at and after birth by the following unspecific but typical symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Children with hypothyroidism are more frequently affected by jaundice, which lasts for more than 14 days (Icterus neonatorum prolongatus). They have a weak sucking reflex and drink poorly, they also show a lack of movement and weakened reflexes. A large tongue (macroglossia) is also noticeable in many children.
Often, children with hypothyroidism are affected by constipation (=obstipation). In infancy, the growth retardation and a reduced height are noticeable, the age of the teeth and bones is not adequate for the age of the child, i.e. the teeth and bones are underdeveloped for the age of the child. Those affected show mental retardation in the absence of adequate treatment and in many cases have reduced intelligence. The hypothyroidism can also lead to hearing loss and resulting speech disorders. In addition, in some cases there can be an isolated increase in the second, diastolic blood pressure value.
