Myxedema

What is myxedema?

Myxedema is a condition marked by thickening and swelling of the skin caused by insufficient production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. The function of thyroid hormones is to regulate your metabolism. Myxedema is associated with other symptoms of underactive thyroid, also called hypothyroidism, including lethargy, weight gain, fatigue, depression, and cold sensitivity, among others.

Hypothyroidism is more common in women, especially those over the age of 50, and can be caused by a viral infection, certain medications, radiation exposure, autoimmune disease, or inherited or congenital disorders. Myxedema is caused by hypothyroidism and occurs more frequently when hypothyroidism is left untreated. Your health care professional can order simple blood tests to determine whether you have hypothyroidism, which can lead to myxedema.

Depending on the cause, myxedema can be treated with thyroid replacement hormones. These medications are effective in eliminating the symptoms that accompany myxedema and hypothyroidism. If you are prescribed thyroid replacement medications, you will probably need to take them for the rest of your life. Left untreated, myxedema can have serious or, rarely, life-threatening complications.

Seek immediate medical care (call 911) for serious symptoms, including very low body temperature, difficulty breathing, low blood sugar, or difficulty thinking clearly, or if you are being treated for hypothyroidism and experience chest pain or heart palpitations.

Seek prompt medical care if you are being treated for myxedema but have mild symptoms that recur or are persistent.