Underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism is a potentially fatal condition. If you quite taking your Synthroid, you’ll die.
It may not be overnight, but it WILL happen. So keep taking that tiny pill first thing every morning.
It literally replaces a very crucial hormone that your thyroid gland is failing to produce adequate amounts of.
However, many people don’t think of it this way. Among them are those with a diagnosed underactive thyroid.
Hypothyroidism or “low thyroid” is commonly associated with cosmetic issues such as hair loss, dry skin, a puffy face and fat gain, plus annoying issues such as feeling cold when nobody else in the room does, having constipation or having a hoarse voice.
But this is a lethal condition without treatment.
Will Quitting Synthroid or Lovenox Kill You?
“Yes, it will,” says Susan L. Besser, MD, with Mercy Medical Center, Baltimore, and Diplomate American Board of Obesity Medicine and board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.
The Master Gland
Dr. Besser explains, “The thyroid gland is one of the ‘master control’ glands of the body. It regulates metabolism.
“So, if your thyroid doesn’t function, eventually your other systems will not function properly — including your heart (you can develop dangerous abnormal rhythms).”
How long before death results from quitting thyroid medication?
Dr. Besser explains, “I can’t tell you how long the process would take — there are too many variables, like underlying heart issues or other chronic health problems.”
Though it’s pretty blunt to state, “You’ll die if you don’t take your thyroid medication,” here are some of the complications of untreated underactive thyroid.
Heart Problems
• Heart failure
• Heart disease
Myxedema
• A life threatening condition resulting from untreated low thyroid.
• Can be set off by infection or sedatives.
• Signs include high intolerance to cold; drowsiness; lethargy; unconsciousness.
In summary, it’s simple: Without the master thyroid gland functioning well, various body systems will begin failing.
So if you decide to stop taking that tiny little Synthroid pill — you’d better get your affairs in order.
Dr. Besser provides comprehensive family care, treating common and acute primary conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Her ongoing approach allows her the opportunity to provide accurate and critical diagnoses of more complex conditions and disorders.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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