Hypothyroidism and Depression
Although separate diseases may be the cause of depression, depression is sometimes a symptom of hypothyroidism. That’s when your thyroid gland doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone. A relationship between hypothyroidism and depression has been assumed for many years; however, the true nature of this association has been difficult to define. After many years of research, the relation between thyroid and depressive largely remains unclear. Hence, further studies will be required to build up strong evidence and connection between the two.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism and depression
If you have hypothyroidism, you may have fatigue, sluggishness, and trouble concentrating and sleep too much. All of that may cause you to feel depressed. At the same time, you could also have:
- Slower heart rate
- Sensitivity to cold
- Joint or muscle pain or cramps
- Vague aches and pains
- Constipation
- Dryness or yellowing of skin
- Brittle or thick nails
- Swelling in front of neck
- Hair loss
- Menstrual period changes
Hypothyroidism has been linked to depression as there is overwhelming evidence that it triggers affective disease and psychic disorders. Patients with depression have a higher occurrence of hypothyroidism and patients those who are hypothyroid have a frequent incidence of depressive syndrome.
Relationship of hormones with depression
Levels of certain hormones, such as those produced by the thyroid gland, can be factors in depression. In addition, some symptoms of depression are associated with thyroid conditions. Because there is this connection between depression symptoms and other medical conditions, blood tests are often ordered to avoid a misdiagnosis. It is important to note that you can have both depression and thyroid conditions at the same time.
Linking Hypothyroidism with Depression and its diagnosis
To help doctor figure out if your depression is because of hypothyroidism, he should test you for thyroid disorders. Blood tests can confirm them if they show low levels of a thyroid hormone called thyroxine and a high level of one called thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
Treatment for depression associated with hypothyroidism
The goal of treatment for any thyroid disorder is to restore normal blood levels of thyroid hormone. Underactive thyroid is treated with the drug levothyroxine or triiodothyronine. Studies show that if you have both hypothyroidism and depression, thyroid-replacement medications may work better than antidepressants. They boost levels of two major thyroid hormones: triiodothyronine (also called T3) and thyroxin (T4). When thyroid pills lower TSH levels, you may start feeling better. Medication can boost those levels, and that can improve or get rid of your symptoms, including depression.
Reference:
https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/hypothyroidism-and-depression
https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-the-thyroid-and-hormones#1
http://psychopathology.imedpub.com/depression-wellbeing-and-hypothyroidism.php?aid=21181
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4017747
https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/when-depression-starts-in-the-neck
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3246784/
