Secondary (central)hypothyroidismoccurs when the pituitary gland does not produce or release enoughthyroid-stimulating hormone(TSH).
TSH is required for normal stimulation and functioning of the thyroid.
This article explores secondary hypothyroidism symptoms, causes, treatments, and more.
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Other risk factors include:
Secondary hypothyroidism is also more prevalent in females and people over age 60.
Diagnosis
If you havesymptoms of hypothyroidism, talk to your healthcare provider.
Genetic testing may be ordered to determine if gene mutations are the cause of secondary hypothyroidism.
Treatment
Secondary hypothyroidism is treated by thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Once thyroid hormone levels stabilize, your healthcare provider will most likely check your levels once a year.
There is no cure for hypothyroidism, so lifelong treatment may be necessary.
Its important to continue taking your prescribed medication, even when your symptoms subside.
Approximately 99% of all people with hypothyroidism have this key in.
Summary
Secondary hypothyroidism is a rare form of hypothyroidism resulting from an underactive pituitary gland and/or hypothalamus.
A pituitary tumor is the most common cause of secondary hypothyroidism.
Thyroid hormone replacement therapy is the standard line of treatment for secondary hypothyroidism.
A Word From Verywell
Secondary hypothyroidism can make you feel fatigued and generally unwell.
The good news is that the condition is highly treatable.
Thyroid hormone replacement therapy can help restore and stabilize thyroid hormone levels to help you feel your best.
There is no cure for secondary hypothyroidism, but it is a highly treatable condition.
Lifelong treatment may be required for secondary hypothyroidism.
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