Hypothyroidism in Dogs

Hypothyroidism is a disease caused by the deficiency of the thyroid hormone. This occurs usually due to a malfunctioning thyroid gland. Read on to know more about the causes and treatment of this disease in dogs...

The thyroid gland, located near the base of the neck, is responsible for producing thyroxine, a hormone that regulates the metabolic activities of animals. Hypothyroidism is a disease that is caused by lower or insufficient production of the thyroid hormone. It is a common health problem that equally affects both male and female dogs.

Causes

Hypothyroidism is usually caused by the impairment of the thyroid gland, when it fails to produce and release adequate amount of hormones required to carry out metabolic activities. Sometimes, the damage of this gland is done by the dog's own immune system and this condition is known as autoimmune thyroiditis. In this condition, the cells of the thyroid gland are destroyed by the immune system. At other times, it is caused by atrophy of the thyroid tissues and the consequent invasion of these tissues by fats.

Hypothyroidism in Children

Hypothyroidism can be found in people of any age group, including children. Here we will take a look at the causes, symptoms and treatment of hypothyroidism in children. Read on...

Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs due to under activity of the thyroid gland. You must know that the thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland present in the throat, just below the Adam's apple. This gland produces thyroid hormones (thyroxine T4) and (triiodothyronine T3) which are responsible for regulation of metabolism, growth and development. The decreased production of these hormones due to the under activity of the gland results in the condition known as hypothyroidism. Although this condition is commonly found in adults, children are also found to suffer from it. Hypothyroidism in children can be of two types - congenital hypothyroidism (present during birth) and acquired hypothyroidism (develops later). Let us see more on the causes, symptoms and treatment methods of this condition in detail.