Assessment and management of hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a hypoactive metabolic state associated with a deficiency in thyroid hormone metabolism. This condition affects many bodily systems, including the nervous system, circulatory system, muscular system, the heart and energy-producing system, and the endocrine glands. The goal of treatment for this hypometabolic state is replacement of thyroid hormones. Health care practitioners need to be aware of early signs and symptoms, and subsequent treatment and monitoring of patients with hypothyroidism.