Myxedema is a potentially deadly endocrine regulation disease that usually arises in connection with pre-existing hypothyroidism, when the normal homeostatic mechanisms for responding to hypothyroidism are overwhelmed. It occurs most often in elderly women, and is usually characterized by swelling of the skin and other soft tissues (Wall, 2000).
The thyroid gland is central to homeostatic metabolic functions, and operates as part of a complex feedback loop involving both the pituitary and hypothalamus to control essential elements of fluid and electrolyte balance and thermoregulation. Under normal conditions, the hypothalamus influences pituitary hormonal output of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) via the secretion of thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH). Virtually any disruption of the precise functioning of these individual glands, or their complex interrelationships can precipitate conditions of hyperthyroidism and Grave's Disease or hypothyroidism and myxedema (MedicineNet, 2002).
Classic symptoms of myxedema include facial puffiness caused by subcutaneous accumulation of mucoploysaccharide, coarsening or roughening facial features and excess facial hirsutism, which often give patients a much older appearance -- sometimes by two decades -- than their chronological age. Other symptoms include a decline of mental processes and functioning, as well as impaired muscle stretch and relaxation reflexes. Since unexplained hoarseness sometimes occurs in conjunction with hypothyroidism, physicians must also be cautious about misdiagnosing the cause as a function of ordinary laryngeal diseases (Schneiderman, 1993).
While more often related to chronic hypothyroidism, myxedema onset is sometimes much more sudden. In its most extreme manifestations, myxedema affects multiple organ systems, causing hypothermia (lowering the core body temperature by three degrees...
Once a patient is being treated for hyperthyroidism, his or her health professional will usually test TSH and thyroid hormones several times each year to evaluate how well the patient is responding to treatment and to check for a worsening of the condition. ("Hyperthyroidism: Topic Overview -- Exams and Tests," WebMD, Last updated 6 Aug 2003) Other tests include an anti-thyroid antibody test, which may help specifically diagnose Graves' disease
Grave's disease is an autoimmune condition which impacts the human thyroid gland. Excessive production of the thyroid hormone engorges the gland and it continues to grow. Because of this, there can be many adverse affects to the person's health, particularly in terms of ophthalmological and dermatological symptoms. The exact cause of the condition has not been determined nor has a cure for the disease. However, there are treatment methods available
Endocrinology AMAZING HORMONES Counterbalance of Sugar and Fat Content between Insulin and Glucagon Physical survival depends on the sustained availability and use of energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate or ATP from sufficient levels of a substance, called glucose (Bowen, 2001). The use of energy depends on the varying levels of activity. Hence, the amount of glucose needed for activity likewise varies each day. Too much or too little glucose is damaging
Veterinary Nursing Anesthesia and Analgesia Case Journal The objective of this study is to address anesthesia needs in two specific cases with the first being a 12-week-old Jack Russell puppy and the second being a 12-year-old geriatric cat. 12-Week-old Jack Russell Puppy This 12-week-old Jack Russell Puppy has eaten a babies dummy. This case study will highlight the anesthesia requirements and protocol and highlight the relevance of effect on renal function, speed of
(Sims & Haggerty, Description section, 2006, ¶ 2). A Palpable Goiter's Presence The journal article, "Hyperthyroidism" (N.d.), explains that a goiter denotes the enlargement of the thyroid gland. The majority of individuals with a goiter will not likely realize it, until the goiter grows to a visible or palpable size, as a goiter may develop to enormous size prior to producing symptoms of compression. Frequently, a low iodine supply in the
Essay Topic Examples 1. The Impact of Hypothyroidism on Metabolic Function: Explore how an underactive thyroid gland can result in hypothyroidism, leading to a slowing down of metabolic processes. Discuss the physiological mechanisms of the condition, its symptoms, such as fatigue and weight gain, and the implications it has on overall health and energy levels. 2. The Psychological Consequences of Thyroid Disorders: Delve into the cognitive and mood-related changes that can accompany both hyperthyroidism
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