Hypothyroidismandadrenal insufficiencyare both conditions that involve theendocrine organsand glands in the body.
They share symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, weight fluctuation, and hair changes.
Studies have found potential links between thyroid and adrenal disorders and how they can co-occur together.
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Read on to learn more about hypothyroidism and adrenal insufficiency, including their symptoms, diagnosis, and management.
It is responsible for making the thyroid hormonesthyroxine(T4) andtriiodothyronine(T3).
Thyroid hormones are extremely important in regulating metabolism and temperature.
When there is a deficiency, the body has trouble using energy and staying warm.
Theadrenal glandsare endocrine organs that sit above the kidneys.
High levels of TSH and low levels of T3 and T4 indicate a problem with the thyroid gland.
The first step to check for adrenal insufficiency is doing acortisol blood test.
If cortisol levels are low, the next step is anadrenocorticotropichormone (ACTH) stimulation test.
These are uncommon conditions and are not the same as “adrenal fatigue.”
Adrenal fatigue is a controversial idea that relative adrenal insufficiency from chronic stress leads to various symptoms.
According to the Endocrine Society, there is currently no scientific basis for the concept of adrenal fatigue.
Along with other major medical societies, the Endocrine Society does not recognize it as a condition.
Treating Hypothyroidism and Adrenal Insufficiency
Both hypothyroidism and adrenal insufficiency are treated with hormone supplementation.
In hypothyroidism,artificial T4 thyroid hormone, calledlevothyroxine, is administered to normalize levels.
Alternatively, desiccated thyroid (Armour thyroid) derived from pig thyroid glands can be prescribed.
Levels of thyroid hormones are monitored over time to ensure the dosage is appropriate.
Adrenal insufficiency is also treated with hormone supplementation.
Laboratory tests can diagnose both conditions and treatment involves hormone supplementation.
Diagnosing hypothyroidism or adrenal insufficiency can take some time, which can be frustrating.
Replacing low thyroid hormones first can contribute to worsening low cortisol.
Work with a healthcare provider to get a proper diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hypothyroidism and cortisol levels appear to be linked.
Sleep disorders, low blood counts, adrenal insufficiency, and mood disorders like depression can cause similar symptoms.
The first step in diagnosing adrenal insufficiency is testing cortisol levels.
The ACTH stimulation test is done to differentiate between these problems.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Definition and facts of adrenal insufficiency & Addison’s disease.
Yamamoto T.Comorbid latent adrenal insufficiency with autoimmune thyroid disease.Eur Thyroid J.
National Institutes of Health.What are the symptoms of adrenal gland disorders?.
Endocrine Society.Primary adrenal insufficiency guideline resources.
