Managing Hyperthyroidism in MothersPosted by Venkateswara Diagnostic Centre on January 21st, 2020 Hyperthyroidism, a condition that occurs when the thyroid hormones are elevated beyond normal levels, is relatively less common in women as compared to Hypothyroidism. Further, hyperthyroidism is usually associated with an autoimmune disorder of the thyroid called as Graves’ disease. This makes the approach to management of hyperthyroidism very difficult during pregnancy. As thyroid regulates metabolism and essential body functions, an increase in thyroid hormones leads to nervousness, tremors, increased sweating and heartbeat, intolerance of heat, and even diarrhoea. Uncontrolled or symptomatic Hyperthyroidism can have serious impact on both the mother and baby. Hyperthyroidism and Pregnancy The major concern in mothers with hyperthyroidism is the effect it can have on the baby. Pregnancy can also aggravate the symptoms of pre-existing hyperthyroidism. Symptoms such as shortness of breath or a heart flutter are often attributed to pregnancy but can also occur due to exacerbation of hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is usually detected in the first half of the pregnancy, but gradually improves over the entire period of gestation. However, in many cases, it is seen that it can worsen in the postpartum period. An increase in thyroid hormones can lead to premature birth and underdevelopment of the child. In the mother, it can lead to pre-eclampsia, a condition that is marked with severe and sometimes life-threatening hypertension. Uncontrolled hyperthyroidism can also cause a crisis called as thyroid storm which can rapidly lead to shock and death. In some cases, it can also lead to the development of neonatal hyperthyroidism in the baby, a condition that needs to be monitored and treated carefully. Management of hyperthyroidism during pregnancy Treatment of hyperthyroidism is tailored according to each patient. It depends on not only the symptoms and severity in the mother, but also the cause of hyperthyroidism.
Some anti-thyroid medications can lead to birth defects as well as hypothyroidism. Therefore, doctors often exercise caution in deciding which medications to prescribe. It is important to get thyroid levels checked every 4-6 weeks so that necessary adjustments in dosage of medications can also be made. The goal of the treatment is to ensure that thyroid hormones remain normal throughout pregnancy and post-delivery as well Venkateswara Diagnostic Centre.
Post-delivery hyperthyroidism is much more common and this can often be confused with postpartum depression. Since hyperthyroidism tends to flare post-delivery, it is important to monitor for symptoms of hyperthyroidism as well as levels of thyroid hormones venkateswara diagnostic centre medavakkam . If you are suffering from hyperthyroidism and are planning a child or are in early stages of pregnancy, we advise you to see a doctor as soon as possible so that you can plan for a safe and healthy pregnancy and delivery Diagnostic Centre in chennai. Perumbakkam Main Rd, Medavakkam, Chennai - 600100 Like it? Share it!More by this author |