Hypothyroidism - Risk Factors

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The evidence for subclinical hypothyroidism’s effects on heart disease is mixed. Some studies, but not all, suggest that subclinical hypothyroidism increases the risks for coronary artery disease and heart failure. More research needs to be done. Many doctors believe that treatment of subclinical hypothyroidism will not help prevent or improve heart problems.

Effects of Hypothyroidism and Subclinical Hypothyroidism on the Mind

Depression. Depression is common in hypothyroidism and can be severe. Hypothyroidism should be considered as a possible cause of any chronic depression, particularly in older women.

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Mental and Behavioral Impairment. Untreated hypothyroidism can, over time, cause mental and behavioral impairment and, eventually, even dementia (memory loss). Whether treatment can completely reverse problems in memory and concentration is uncertain, although many doctors believe that only mental impairment in hypothyroidism that occurs at birth is permanent.

Other Health Effects of Hypothyroidism

The following medical conditions have also been associated with hypothyroidism. Often the causal relationship is not clear in such cases:

• Iron deficiency anemia
• Respiratory problems
• Kidney function
• Glaucoma
• Headache. (Hypothyroidism may worsen headaches in people predisposed to them.)
• Thyroid lymphoma. (Patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis are at higher risk for this rare form of cancer.)
• Joint stiffness. (Women with hypothyroidism may actually have fewer problems with joint stiffness than women with normal thyroid.)

Effects of Hypothyroidism on Infertility and Pregnancy

In premenopausal women, early symptoms of hypothyroidism can interfere with fertility. A history of miscarriage may be a sign of hypothyroidism. (A pregnant woman with hypothyroidism has a fourfold risk for miscarriage.) Studies suggest that even if thyroid levels are normal, women who have a history of miscarriages often have antithyroid antibodies during early pregnancy and are at risk for developing autoimmune thyroiditis over time.

Most women with overt hypothyroidism have menstrual cycle abnormalities and often fail to ovulate. Overt hypothyroidism in a pregnant woman can affect normal fetal development.