Question
I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism at birth. An expert recommended discontinuing medication at the age of 6, and I have been off medication for two years now, and my condition is normal. Why does this happen?
Answer
Hypothyroidism, also referred to as underactive thyroid, is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. This can lead to a systemic disease. The disease is often not diagnosed early, requiring patients or their families to gradually notice the symptoms. Common causes of hypothyroidism in middle-aged and elderly individuals include previous thyroid surgery, thyroiditis, radioactive iodine-131 treatment, and autoimmune diseases, or recent discontinuation of thyroid hormone medication. Early symptoms of hypothyroidism in middle-aged and elderly people often include cold intolerance, fatigue, drowsiness, poor tolerance to cold, constipation, and menstrual disorders. These symptoms are often considered signs of natural aging and may not be taken seriously. Long-term patients may experience fat metabolism disorders and high cholesterol levels.