Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is needed by the thyroid gland for production of thyroid hormones. TSH is made in the pituitary gland and a feedback loop exists between the pituitary, thyroid and the body's cells, all which work in concert to regulate the proper amount of TSH. If for any reason the thyroid gland cannot properly metabolize TSH, or the cells are unable to convert thyroid hormones, the pituitary gland overproduces TSH.
Hypothyroidism
Elevated TSH levels are an indication that there is not enough thyroid hormone being metabolized in the body. This results in hypothyroidism, according to the Merck Manual. You may experience feelings of weakness or depression, depending on the severity of your condition. Your ability to think clearly may be affected as well as your cognitive and reasoning functions. Inexplicable bouts of crying alternating with lethargy and a loss of the will might be experienced. You may notice hair loss and dry, flaking skin with cracking and dandruff. Uncontrollable weight gain and edema can plague your efforts to stay healthy. Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include food cravings, menstrual irregularities, cramping, miscarriage, infertility, unexplained chilliness and constipation.
Cardiovascular Problems
Inadequate treatment of thyroid conditions can lead to heart disease, artherosclerosis, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, stroke and elevated lipid count. These conditions can contribute to high cholesterol, arterial plaque and fatty liver.
Musculoskeletal Problems
Elevated TSH combined with lowered thyroid hormone levels may contribute to muscle and joint pain resembling arthritis or fibromyalgia, weakness, tiredness and chronic fatigue syndrome. There may be swelling, redness and inflammation of the joints.
Hashimotos Thyroiditis
Hashimotos thyroiditis is an auto-immune disease which may be connected to high TSH levels. The body produces agents which attack and destroy the thyroid gland, making it impossible to produce thyroid hormones naturally, reports Endocrineweb.com. Permanent hypothyroidism can result. The production of specific thyroid antibodies indicates the presence of this disease. Man-made thyroid hormones must be taken for life to balance the lack of thyroid and the pituitary gland's output of TSH.
Myxedema Coma
Elevated TSH indicates a loss of thyroid hormone and may be the first indication of a serious, life-threatening condition known as myxedema coma. When thyroid levels are left untreated for long periods of time, or TSH is allowed to rise disproportionately to what is considered normal, excessive chilliness may develop, indicating an unusually low body temperature. The heart rate slows, stupor can develop and the person may experience seizures, bodily fluid build up, coma and death. Immediate medical attention is required.
References
- Women to Women: Thyroid Health
- Endocrine Web: Hypothyroidism: Too Little Thyroid Hormone
- Endocrinology and Metabolism, Phillip Felig and Lawrence A. Frohman, 2001
