In the human body, we have a butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, called as the Thyroid gland. This gland makes the hormones, T3 and T4 which are necessary for the proper functioning of every organ in the body. Any disturbances in the functioning of this gland are reflected in the change in the level of another extremely sensitive hormone called TSH which comes from the pituitary gland. Hypothyroidism In hypothyroidism, T3, T4 hormones are low and TSH is high. A person might get symptoms of Fatigue Weight gain Drowsiness, lethargy Constipation Muscle weakness Goitre Memory disturbances Irregular periods/Infertility Hairloss etc When this hypothyroidism is a result of an autoimmune disease, it is called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This is often associated with Anti microsomal antibodies (or Anti TPO antibodies) or anti-thyroglobulin antibodies. Other varieties of thyroiditis include Subacute thyroiditis, postpartum thyroiditis, and Riedl’s thyroiditis. For the treatment of hypothyroidism, thyroxine sodium is given which is the T4 which our thyroid gland produces normally. So the treatment is simple and pure hormonal. There are no restrictions for food in hypothyroidism as is often misunderstood.

As diabetes is a prime risk factor for cardiovascular disease, controlling other risk factors which may give rise to secondary conditions, as well as the diabetes itself, is one of the facets of diabetes management. Checking cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglyceride levels may indicate hyperlipoproteinemia, Checking the blood pressure and keeping it within strict limits (using diet and antihypertensive treatment) protects against the retinal, renal and cardiovascular complications of diabetes. Regular follow-up by a podiatrist or other foot health specialists is encouraged to prevent the development of diabetic foot. Annual eye exams are suggested to monitor for progression of diabetic retinopathy.