Nursing Care Plan for Hypothyroidism

Definition of Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition characterized by low thyroid hormone production. There are many disorders that result in hypothyroidism. These disorders may directly or indirectly involve the thyroid gland. Because thyroid hormone affects growth, development, and many cell processes, inadequate thyroid hormone has widespread consequences for the body.


Etiology

Hypothyroidism is a very common condition. It is estimated that 3 % to 5 % of the population has some form of hypothyroidism. The condition is more common in women than in men and the events in question increases with age.
Below is a list of some of the common causes of hypothyroidism in adults followed by a discussion of these conditions.

• Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
• Lymphocytic thyroiditis (which may occur after hyperthyroidism).
• Thyroid Destruction (from radioactive iodine or surgery).
• Pituitary or hypothalamic disease.
• Drugs.
• Severe iodine deficiency.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism

The symptoms of hypothyroidism are often invisible. They are not specific (which means they can mimic the symptoms of many other conditions) and are often attributed to aging. Patients with mild hypothyroidism may have no signs or symptoms. The symptoms generally become more obvious as the condition worsens and the majority of these complaints related to a slowdown in metabolism.
Common symptoms as follows :

• Fatigue
• Depression.
• An increase in body weight.
• Cold intolerance.
• Excessive sleepiness.
• The hair is dry and rough.
• Constipation.
• Dry skin.
• Muscle spasms.
• Cholesterol levels were increased.
• Concentration decreases.
• Aches and pains vague.
• The legs are swollen.

As the disease becomes more severe, there may be swelling around the eyes, a slowing heart rate, a decrease in body temperature, and heart failure. The form is very large, severe hypothyroidism may lead to a life-threatening coma (myxoedema coma). In a person who has severe hypothyroidism, a myxoedema coma tends to be triggered by a severe illness, surgery, stress, or traumatic injury.
This condition requires hospitalization (in the hospital) and treatment with thyroid hormones given by injection at the correct diagnosis, hypothyroidism can be easily and completely treated with thyroid hormone replacement. On the other hand , untreated hypothyroidism can lead to an enlarged heart (cardiomyopathy), worsening heart failure, and an accumulation of fluid around the lungs (pleural effusion).


Nursing Diagnosis for Hypothyroidism

1. Disturbed Sensory Perception (specify: visual)
2. Decreased cardiac output
3. Imbalance nutrition less than body requirements
4. Activity Intolerance
5. Hypothermia
6. Constipation
7. Ineffective breathing patterns