Thyroid Disorders and Aging: Common Problems and Challenges

The prospect of growing older brings with it an array of health challenges. As our organs, tissues, and other bodily systems age, their ability to function properly can decline. Even in the absence of a specific illness, disease, or injury, seniors’ overall quality of life can be negatively impacted if these small, gradual changes are not monitored and addressed.

Older men and women stand a much greater chance of developing thyroid disorders. In fact, health data show that seniors comprise the vast majority of those diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and other common thyroid problems.

Although thyroid problems are rarely fatal and respond well if treated properly, prompt and accurate diagnosis can often be difficult in older men and women. A recent study conducted by scientists at the Montefiore Medical Center and Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that the early signs of thyroid disorders are often overlooked in elderly patients, and are sometimes mistaken for normal signs of aging.

As a result, it’s particularly important for older men and women -- as well as their loved ones and family members -- to stay aware of common thyroid symptoms and to alert their physicians at the first sign of any possible problems. This week, we’ll take a closer look at the issue of thyroid disorders in the elderly.

How Often Do Thyroid Disorders Impact the Elderly?

Although people in every phase of life can suffer from hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and other forms of thyroid disease, these disorders are most common among men and particularly women over the age of 60. According to recent health statistics, as much as twenty percent of the female elderly population may be suffering from thyroid imbalance, with an estimate of fifteen percent applied to their male counterparts. Many of these thyroid disorders -- some believe more than half -- may be undiagnosed.

The exact causes of the high prevalence of thyroid disorders in the elderly are not yet known. Many researchers believe that the problem stems from a combination of the hormonal and endocrine system changes that can mark the later years, as well as a general decline in the body’s ability to function properly with advancing age.

What are the Unique Risks of Thyroid Disorders in the Elderly?

Thyroid disorders pose a significant health risk regardless of the patient’s age. However, in the elderly population, diseases such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Grave’s disease, and other disorders can have dire consequences, particularly if they are left untreated.

Hypothyroidism, which results from an underactive thyroid gland, is linked with a wide array of negative health impacts among older men and women. Mental illness is one of the most serious concerns.

It is estimated that as many as one-quarter of all men and women over the age of 65 have some form of mental illness or disorder, and that thyroid problems may play a part in causing mental illness or exacerbating existing mental disorders, including dementia and confusion. Other health problems that have been linked with hypothyroidism in the elderly population include obesity, hardening of the arteries, higher cholesterol, and hypertension.

Though less common than hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism also impacts older men and women. Left untreated, it can result in potentially serious health problems, including heart palpitations, fatigue and weakness, decreased mobility, congestive heart failure, and weight loss.

The Treatment of Thyroid Disorders in the Elderly

Generally, most thyroid disorders respond well to consistent treatment, and this trend holds true with older men and women, as well. However, because of the unique health challenges facing the elderly as a result of the natural aging process, there are some considerations that have to be addressed when devising an effective treatment plan.

For example, some common forms of treatment for hypothyroidism can aggravate pre-existing heart conditions, for which elderly men and women are at greater risk than their younger counterparts. Post-menopausal women who are being treated with hormone replacement therapy may have to have their medications adjusted. Also, in general, lower dosages of medication are typically needed to treat elderly men and women with thyroid disorders.

Symptoms to Look Out For

If you or an elderly friend or family member experiences any of these symptoms, talk to a licensed medical professional as soon as possible.

• Weight loss or gain
• Confusion
• Sensitivity to heat or cold
• Constipation
• Dry, itchy skin
• Fatigue
• Hearing loss
• Nervousness
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Apathy
• Appetite changes

For Further Reading

• http://www.postgradmed.com/issues/2003/05_03/mohandas1.htm

• http://thyroid.about.com/od/gettestedanddiagnosed/a/borderline.htm