What Should Seniors Know About Thyroid Disorders?
Thyroid disorders are common in seniors but often go unrecognized because symptoms overlap with normal aging. The thyroid gland regulates metabolism and affects virtually every body system. Understanding thyroid conditions helps seniors recognize symptoms and seek appropriate evaluation and treatment.
Understanding the Thyroid
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck that produces hormones regulating metabolism, the process of converting food into energy. Thyroid hormones affect heart rate, body temperature, weight, energy levels, and many other functions. When the thyroid produces too much or too little hormone, widespread symptoms result.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid produces insufficient hormone. This is the more common thyroid disorder in seniors. The most common cause is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid.
Symptoms develop gradually and may include fatigue and weakness, weight gain or difficulty losing weight, cold sensitivity, constipation, dry skin and hair, muscle aches, depression, and memory problems. Because these symptoms overlap with aging and other conditions, hypothyroidism often goes undiagnosed.
Untreated hypothyroidism can cause elevated cholesterol, heart problems, and in severe cases, a life-threatening condition called myxedema. Early detection and treatment prevent these complications.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid produces excess hormone. Graves’ disease, another autoimmune condition, is a common cause. Thyroid nodules can also produce excess hormone.
Symptoms may include unintended weight loss, rapid heartbeat or palpitations, anxiety and irritability, tremor, sweating and heat sensitivity, frequent bowel movements, and difficulty sleeping. In seniors, symptoms may be subtler, sometimes presenting as heart problems or unexplained weight loss without classic hyperthyroid symptoms.
Untreated hyperthyroidism strains the heart, weakens bones, and can cause dangerous heart rhythm abnormalities. Thyroid storm, a rare but life-threatening acceleration of symptoms, requires emergency treatment.
Diagnosis
Simple blood tests diagnose thyroid disorders. TSH, thyroid-stimulating hormone, is the primary screening test. Elevated TSH suggests hypothyroidism as the pituitary produces more TSH trying to stimulate an underactive thyroid. Low TSH suggests hyperthyroidism. Additional tests measure thyroid hormone levels and antibodies.
Screening recommendations vary, but many experts recommend periodic thyroid testing for seniors, especially those with symptoms or risk factors. Routine screening enables early detection before significant complications develop.
Treatment
Hypothyroidism is treated with synthetic thyroid hormone replacement, typically levothyroxine. Daily medication restores normal hormone levels and resolves symptoms. Dosing requires adjustment over time, with periodic blood tests monitoring levels.
Hyperthyroidism treatment options include anti-thyroid medications, radioactive iodine to reduce thyroid function, or surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid. Treatment choice depends on cause, severity, and individual factors.
Getting Thyroid Care
All Seniors Foundation encourages seniors with symptoms suggesting thyroid problems to seek evaluation. Thyroid disorders are easily diagnosed with blood tests and effectively treated. Contact us if you experience symptoms that might indicate thyroid dysfunction.
