A new study has found that the link between the two conditions is not as strong as previously thought. Published in JAMA Psychiatry.
Symptoms of low thyroid function (hypothyroidism) and depression overlap . The extent to which these two states are actually related is still poorly known.
Biological prerequisites are known that may cause such a relationship. Neurobiological studies have uncovered the mechanisms of action of the hormones of this gland on the brain, which can explain how their lack affects mood. In addition, hypothetically, the immune processes that underlie autoimmune thyroiditis (a common cause of hypothyroidism) can determine this connection. png» /> Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Symptoms of hypothyroidism are caused by slow metabolism. These include:
- increased sensitivity to cold,
- dry skin,
- fatigue,
- forgetfulness,
- depression,
- constipation,
- weight gain .
All symptoms of the disease are nonspecific. It can be accurately diagnosed only with the help of a blood test for hormones.
Sources: Mayo, American Thyroid Association
Previous studies have shown conflicting results. They showed both a very significant association of depression with hypothyroidism (a three-fold increase in its risk), and a very weak one. The question of how serious this connection is remained open.
German scientists decided to test how thyroid function is related to depression, given the shortcomings of previous work. They conducted a meta-analysis of 25 studies that included nearly 350,000 people in total. The connection turned out to be quite «modest».
Hypothyroidism
If a person constantly feels weak or tired, gains weight quickly, or is often cold, these may be signs of hypothyroidism. In this condition, the production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland decreases, which affects the functioning of many organs and systems, and slows down a number of processes in the body. Read on to find out why hypothyroidism occurs, what its symptoms are, how it is diagnosed and treated.
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The risk of depression with hypothyroidism was 30% higher than average, according to new data. The highest risk was with the most pronounced lack of hormones (70% higher). In subclinical course (without bright manifestations), it was increased by 13%. This relationship was clear in women, but almost non-existent in men. The association between autoimmunity and risk of depression, according to this study, is weak.
The authors write that the risk of depression in hypothyroidism appears to be substantially lower than previously thought. Probably, this relationship is predominantly manifested in women with severe endocrine disorders.