Thyroid Hormone Disorders
While thyroid diseases (covered separately) encompass structural problems of the thyroid gland itself, thyroid hormone disorders focus specifically on the metabolic consequences of abnormal hormone levels — whether from primary thyroid pathology, pituitary dysfunction, or other causes. The spectrum extends from subclinical abnormalities detected only on blood testing to overt disorders with significant systemic consequences.
Subclinical thyroid dysfunction
Subclinical hypothyroidism — elevated TSH with normal T4 — is detected in approximately 5–10% of the general population, particularly in older women. Whether to treat it with levothyroxine is a nuanced decision that depends on TSH level, symptoms, thyroid antibody status, age, and cardiovascular risk. Subclinical hyperthyroidism — suppressed TSH with normal T3 and T4 — is associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation and osteoporosis and warrants careful assessment.
Thyroid storm
At the extreme end of hyperthyroidism, thyroid storm is a rare, life-threatening emergency characterised by extreme tachycardia, hyperthermia, agitation, confusion, and multi-organ dysfunction. It typically occurs in the context of known but poorly controlled hyperthyroidism, precipitated by infection, surgery, or other acute illness, and requires immediate intensive care management.
Myxoedema coma
Equally rare, myxoedema coma represents severe, decompensated hypothyroidism — typically precipitated by cold exposure, infection, or sedative medications in an elderly patient with unrecognised or untreated hypothyroidism. It is characterised by hypothermia, bradycardia, hypoventilation, and impaired consciousness, and carries a significant mortality.
Choosing where to be treated
Use our independent directory to compare licensed organisations in Turkey, or read our selection guide before you decide.