Hypothyroidism

Bsc.nursing 4th year student,purbanchal university

1. Binita Bhattarai 1

2. Introduction Hypothyroidism results from suboptimal levels of thyroid hormone. When thyroid deficiency is present at birth, the condition is known as cretinism. Binita Bhattarai 2

3. Definition Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone. Binita Bhattarai 3

4. Incidence It occurs most often in older women. Binita Bhattarai 4

5. Causes Autoimmune diseases In autoimmune disease the immune system produces antibodies that attack own tissues. Treatment of hyperthyroidism Radiation therapy Radiation used to treat the cancer of head and neck can affect the thyroid gland and may lead to hypothyroidism. Binita Bhattarai 5

6. Contd … Thyroid surgery Medications such as lithium Pituitary disorder Iodine deficiency Binita Bhattarai 6

7. Clinical manifestations Extreme fatigue Hair loss ,brittle nails,dry skin Numbness and tingling of fingers Husky voice and hoarseness Binita Bhattarai 7

8. Menstrual disturbances,loss of libido, Pulse rate abnormal,weight gain, cachexia, Thickened skin, alopecia, Expressionless and masklike facial features. Contd …. Binita Bhattarai 8

9. Contd …. Sensation of cold in warm environment, Dulled mental process ,apathy, Slowed speech; enlarged tongue, hands,feet , Constipation, Hypothermia, Coronary artery diseases Myxedema coma Binita Bhattarai 9

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11. Medical management Synthetic levothyroxine ( synthroid or levothroid ) is the preferred preparation. Concentrated glucose may be given if hypoglycemia is evident. If myxedema coma is present ,thyroid hormone is given intravenously until consciousness is restored. Binita Bhattarai 11

12. Nursing management Monitor vital signs, including heart rate and rhythm. Instruct the client about thyroid replacement therapy. Instruct the client in low- calorie,low - cholesterol,low -saturated fat diet. Assess the client for constipation; provide roughage and fluids to prevent constipation. Provide warm environment for the client. Avoid sedatives and narcotics. Binita Bhattarai 12

13. Contd.. Monitor signs of overdose. Instruct the client to report episodes of chest pain immediately. Binita Bhattarai 13

14. Assignment Write down the differences between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Binita Bhattarai 14

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