Postpartum thyroiditis Flashcards
1
Q
What is postpartum thyroiditis
A
changes in thyroid function within 12 months of delivery, affecting women without a history of thyroid disease. It can involvethyrotoxicosis(hyperthyroidism),hypothyroidism, or both.
2
Q
What are are the 3 usual stages of postpartum thyroiditis
A
- Thyrotoxicosis (first 3 months)
- Hypothyroid (3-6 months)
- Normal thyroid function (Within 1 year)
3
Q
Symptoms of thyrotoxicosis (Hyperthyroidism)
A
- Anxiety and irritability
- Sweating and heat intolerance
- Tachycardia
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Frequent loose stools
4
Q
Symptoms of hypothyroidism
A
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Dry skin
- Coarse hair and hair loss
- Low mood
- Fluid retention (oedema, pleural effusions, ascites)
- Heavy or irregular periods
- Constipation
5
Q
Low TSH
High T3 and T4
A
Hyperthyroidism
6
Q
High TSH
Low T3 and T4
A
Hypothyroidism
7
Q
Investigations for postpartum thyroiditis
A
TFTs 6-8 weeks after delivery
Anual monitoring
8
Q
Management of postpartum thyroiditis
A
Thyrotoxicosis - Propranolol (Symptom control)
Hypothyroidism - Levothyroxine
