Hypothyroidism is a condition which results from inadequate thyroid
hormone production. The problem could be due to immune-mediated
destruction of the thyroid gland, thyroid gland atrophy, dietary iodine
deficiency, or a congenital problem.
We see it most
commonly in middle-aged to elderly dogs. Some breeds are more
predisposed to this disease than others. The list includes Golden
Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, beagles, poodles, Doberman Pinscher,
Irish Setters, Great Dane, Dachshund, and Boxer.
Symptoms
Most common signs can be occasionally attributed to the age. Those
include increase sleepiness, overweight, poor coat condition, flakiness
and skin dryness, and hair loss. Sometimes a pet can have skin
infection and anemia. One classical sign is a thickening of the facial
and head skin folds which gives a dog impression of a "sad face". If
your pet suffers from chronic skin infections and ear problems, ask
your veterinarian to test him/her for a hypothyroidism. Diagnosis
To
diagnose whether your pet has hypothyroidism your veterinarian will run
a blood test measuring T4 (or total T4), T3, free T4 and TSH (thyroid
stimulating hormone). Depending on values of those hormones your doctor
will be able to establish if you pet is suffering from thyroid disease.
Treatment
The
treatment for hypothyroidism is quite straight forward. Your doctor
will prescribe oral thyroid hormone supplement. It is very important to
realize that thyroid treatment is for life.
Usually there will be a rapid improvement in your pet's activity. Regrowth of the hair may take up to 4 months.
Re-testing
It
is standard to recheck T4 levels after 4-6 weeks of treatment. That
will give your doctor an idea whether your pet needs a dose adjustment.
Every time the dose of the medication is changed it is good idea to
recheck the levels 4-6 weeks later. When your pet is well regulated,
the blood test will be needed only every 6 months
Other thyroid resource
http://www.veterinarypartner.com
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