Treatment:

The purpose of treatment is to replace the thyroid hormone that is lacking. Levothyroxine is the most commonly used medication. Doctors will prescribe the lowest dose that effectively relieves symptoms and brings the TSH level to a normal range.

Patients will need lifelong therapy. You must continue taking your medication even when your symptoms go away. After the medication dose is determined, your thyroid hormone levels should be monitored every year.

After you have begun taking replacement therapy, report to your health care provider any symptoms of increased thyroid activity (hyperthyroidism) such as:

• Rapid weight loss
• Restlessness
• Sweating

Myxedema coma is a medical emergency that occurs when the body's level of thyroid hormones becomes extremely low. It is treated with intravenous thyroid hormone replacement and steroid medications. Some patients may need supportive therapy (oxygen, breathing assistance, fluid replacement) and intensive-care nursing.

Expectations (prognosis):

With treatment, most people will return to normal. However, you will need to take medication for the rest of your life.

Myxedema coma can result in death.

Complications:

Myxedema coma, the most severe form of hypothyroidism, is rare. It may be caused by an infection, illness, exposure to cold, or certain medications in people with untreated hypothyroidism.

Symptoms and signs of myxedema coma include:

• Below normal temperature
• Decreased breathing
• Low blood pressure
• Low blood sugar
• Unresponsiveness

Other complications are:

• Heart disease
• Increased risk of infection
• Infertility
• Miscarriage

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if:

• You have symptoms of hypothyroidism (or myxedema)
• You develop chest pain or rapid heartbeat
• You have an infection
• Your symptoms get worse or do not improve with treatment
• You develop new symptoms