Skip to main content
Tags: Myxedema | hypothyroidism

Myxedema Risks of Advanced Hypothyroidism: What You Should Know

By    |   Tuesday, 07 June 2016 09:48 PM EDT

Myxedema is a serious condition that may occur from an underactive thyroid, known as hypothyroidism. It often results when hypothyroidism is left untreated.

The thyroid gland normally produces hormones to regulate the body’s metabolism. When an underactive thyroid doesn’t release enough hormones, the metabolic process is disrupted.

Symptoms of myxedema include a thickening and swelling of the skin, according to Healthgrades. Other symptoms of myxedema and hypothyroidism include fatigue, lethargy, depression, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold.

Doctor: Your Tiny Thyroid Linked to Heart, Obesity, Diabetes, Arthritis and 59 Diseases! More Info Here

Myxedema is an advanced form of hypothyroidism, the Mayo Clinic reports. The symptoms of an underactive thyroid may become more severe when it is not treated properly. Myxedema is rare, but it is a life-threatening condition. It can lead to low blood pressure, decreased body temperature, decreased breathing, and coma.

Fever, behavioral changes, and increased swelling in the hands and feet could be signs of myxedema, WebMD reports.

Immediate medical attention is necessary when symptoms of myxedema occur, the Mayo Clinic notes. Myxedema coma could result from infection, stress to the body, or sedatives.

Urgent: Dr. Brownstein Reveals Important Thyroid Information You Need to Know

Surgery, trauma, heart failure, stroke, certain medications, and not taking prescribed drugs may also contribute to myxedema coma in patients with hypothyroidism, WebMD explains.

Myxedema occurs more frequently in elderly patients and women, according to MedicineNet.com. Changes in the weather during the winter months might trigger the condition because of extremes in temperature.

Emergency medical treatment includes intravenous fluids to increase thyroid hormones as well as cortisol. Doctors may administer antibiotics for infection and glucose supplements when low blood sugar levels are detected. Although myxedema coma can result in death if not treated immediately, the early treatment helps to improve the condition, according to WebMD.

To avoid myxedema or myxedema coma, patients with hypothyroidism need treatment for their underactive thyroid as early as possible, especially when noticing symptoms. Taking their prescribed medication for the disorder helps to prevent myxedema. Recognizing the signs of myxedema and myxedema coma avoids life-threatening situations.

Special: Real Truth About Iodized Salt. The Food Industry Doesn't Want You to Know This!

© 2024 Newsmax. All rights reserved.


FastFeatures
Myxedema is a serious condition that may occur from an underactive thyroid, known as hypothyroidism. It often results when hypothyroidism is left untreated.
Myxedema, hypothyroidism
367
2016-48-07
Tuesday, 07 June 2016 09:48 PM
Newsmax Media, Inc.

Sign up for Newsmax’s Daily Newsletter

Receive breaking news and original analysis - sent right to your inbox.

(Optional for Local News)
Privacy: We never share your email address.

PLEASE NOTE: All information presented on Newsmax.com is for informational purposes only. It is not specific medical advice for any individual. All answers to reader questions are provided for informational purposes only. All information presented on our websites should not be construed as medical consultation or instruction. You should take no action solely on the basis of this publication’s contents. Readers are advised to consult a health professional about any issue regarding their health and well-being. While the information found on our websites is believed to be sensible and accurate based on the author’s best judgment, readers who fail to seek counsel from appropriate health professionals assume risk of any potential ill effects. The opinions expressed in Newsmaxhealth.com and Newsmax.com do not necessarily reflect those of Newsmax Media. Please note that this advice is generic and not specific to any individual. You should consult with your doctor before undertaking any medical or nutritional course of action.

 
TOP

Interest-Based Advertising | Do not sell or share my personal information

Newsmax, Moneynews, Newsmax Health, and Independent. American. are registered trademarks of Newsmax Media, Inc. Newsmax TV, and Newsmax World are trademarks of Newsmax Media, Inc.

NEWSMAX.COM
America's News Page
© Newsmax Media, Inc.
All Rights Reserved
Download the NewsmaxTV App
Get the NewsmaxTV App for iOS Get the NewsmaxTV App for Android Scan QR code to get the NewsmaxTV App
NEWSMAX.COM
America's News Page
© Newsmax Media, Inc.
All Rights Reserved