thyroid disorders Flashcards
The thyroid produces 2 hormones, thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (t3). What is their function in the body?
Act as cellular energy release catalyst and influence the function and health of every cell in the body
What is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in women >50 years old?
Hashimoto thyroiditis
it is autoimmune in origin
usually discovered once the thyroid has been largely destroyed
Clinical presentation of Hypothyroidism?
MOMS SO TIRED
Memory loss obesity menorrhagia slowness skin and hair dryness onset is gradual tiredness intolerance to cold raised BP Energy level falls Depression and delayed relaxation phase of refelxes
Clinical presentation of hyperthyroidism
SWEATING
Sweating weight loss Emotional liability Appetite increased Tremor/tachycardia Intolerance of heat Nervousness Goiter/GI problems (frequent loose stools)
The most common cause of hyperthyroidism in women 30-50
Graves disease
auto-immune in nature also seen with auto immune conditions
True or false
Amiodarone and interferon can cause hypo/hyperthyroidism
True
Most reliable test to diagnose hyper/hypothyroidism
tsh
Follow up test to confirm hyper/hypothyroidism
free T4
When should you recheck TSH after initiating levothyroxine therapy?
8 weeks
True/false
Levothyroxine should be taken with a large meal at different times daily
False
empty stomach, same time daily,
Do not take within 2 hours of a cation ie: calcium, iron, magnesium, or aluminum
It causes a chelation effect with reduced drug absorption
Treatment for hyperthyroidism
Beta blockers (B1 for palpitations B2 for tremors) Methimazole (tapizole) or PTU to reduce thyroxine production
Methimazole (tapizole) or PTU use
carries acute hepatic failure warning
when is treatment recommended with levothyroxine?
when TSH >5
