Primary hypothyroidism is a condition of decreased hormone production by the thyroid gland.

Hypothyroidism caused by the inability of the thyroid gland to make T3 and T4 is called primary hypothyroidism. Worldwide, the most common cause of primary hypothyroidism is deficiency of the element iodine. In the US, the most common cause is destruction of the thyroid gland by the immune system, a condition called Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Other causes of primary hypothyroidism include surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid gland, radioactive iodine used for treatment of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), radiation exposure to the neck, X-ray contrast agents, and certain drugs such as lithium. In some cases the cause of hypothyroidism is unknown.

Since the thyroid gland is regulated by the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, disorders of these organs can cause the thyroid gland to produce too little thyroid hormone as well. This condition is called secondary hypothyroidism.

Primary hypothyroidism may cause a variety of symptoms and affects the whole body. Its normal rate of functioning slows, causing mental and physical sluggishness. Symptoms may vary from mild to severe. The most severe form is called myxedema coma and is a medical emergency. Risk factors for hypothyroidism include age (older than age 50), female gender, obesity, thyroid surgery, and X-ray or radiation treatments to the neck.

Early symptoms:

• weakness
• fatigue
• cold intolerance
• constipation
• weight gain
• depression
• joint or muscle pain
• thin, brittle fingernails
• thin, brittle hair
• paleness

Late symptoms:

• slow speech
• dry flaky skin
• thickening of the skin
• puffy face, hands, and feet
• decreased taste and smell
• thinning of eyebrows
• hoarseness
• menstrual disorders

Physical examination may reveal a smaller than normal gland, though sometimes the gland is normal in size or even enlarged (goiter). Other physical findings include pale, yellow, and dry skin; thin, brittle hair; loss of the edges of the eyebrows; coarse facial features; firm swelling of the arms and legs; and slow muscle relaxation when reflexes are tested. Vital signs may reveal a slow heart rate, low blood pressure, and low temperature.

A chest X-ray sometimes reveals an enlarged heart.

Laboratory tests to determine thyroid function include:

• Free T4 test (low)
• Total T3 or free T3 (low)
• Serum TSH (high)

Additional laboratory abnormalities may include:

• increased cholesterol levels
• increased liver enzymes
• increased serum prolactin
• low serum sodium
• a complete blood count (CBC) shows anemia

The purpose of treatment is to replace the deficient thyroid hormone. Levothyroxine (T4) is the most commonly used medication, but a preparation of T3 is also available. Most people feel their best when TSH is brought into the 1 to 2 mcIU/mL range. The lowest dose effective in relieving symptoms and normalizing blood tests is given.

Life-long therapy is needed as relapses will occur if therapy is interrupted. Medication must be continued even when symptoms subside.

After replacement therapy has begun, report any symptoms of increased thyroid activity (hyperthyroidism), such as restlessness, rapid weight loss, heat intolerance, and sweating.

Myxedema coma is treated by intravenous thyroid replacement and steroid therapy. Supportive therapy of oxygen, assisted ventilation, fluid replacement, and intensive care nursing may be indicated.

With early treatment, the condition can be completely controlled. However, relapses will occur if the medication is not continued. Myxedema coma can result in death.

Myxedema coma, the most severe form of hypothyroidism, is rare. It may be caused by an infection, illness, exposure to cold, or certain medications. Symptoms and signs of myxedema coma include:

• unresponsiveness
• decreased breathing
• low blood pressure
• low blood sugar
• below normal temperature

Other complications include:

• heart disease
• increased risk of infection
• infertility
• miscarriage
• pituitary tumors

Call your health care provider if signs or symptoms of hypothyroidism or myxedema are present

Call your health care provider if restlessness, rapid weight loss, heat intolerance, rapid heart rate, excessive sweating, or symptoms of hyperthyroidism occur after beginning thyroid replacement.

Primary hypothyroidism is preventable by supplemental iodine in areas where iodine in the food supply is low. Otherwise, the condition is not preventable. Awareness of risk may allow early diagnosis and treatment. Some experts advocate screening laboratory testing (TSH) in certain high risk groups (e.g., women older than 50 years).