Thyroid Problems
The thyroid gland is associated with a person’s metabolism, which supports the processes so the body can use energy efficiently. However, since lupus is an autoimmune disease, it can be a symptom of lupus. About one percent of the people diagnosed with lupus have overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism. The percentage is higher at six percent for people with underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).
The thyroid is a small gland located in the neck, but when it is overactive, it can affect various organs, including the skin, liver, kidneys, heart, and brain. As a result, they can feel intolerance to heat, tremors, heart palpitations, and weight loss. In addition, hyperthyroidism can sometimes lead to osteoporosis in lupus patients. However, when a lupus patient has hypothyroidism, they can experience dry skin and hair, moodiness, depression, constipation, fatigue, and weight gain. They may also experience intolerance to cold.
If the patient has hyperthyroidism, the doctor will prescribe radioactive iodine, anti-thyroid medications, or radioactive iodine. If the thyroid is inactive, it needs thyroid hormone replacement therapy to normalize the body’s metabolism.
