HomeAnswersEndocrinologyhypothyroidismCan hypothyroidism result in depression and memory problems?

Are depression, irregular periods and memory problem symptoms of hypothyroidism?

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Published At December 19, 2020
Reviewed AtJuly 26, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi,

I would like to ask something. I never heard of hypothyroidism but I came across it when I was reading an article of what causes love handles. I don't want to self-diagnose but I've been experiencing its symptoms. I'm diagnosed with major depressive disorder with psychotic features. I've read that hypothyroidism and depression can be linked. I always feel tired, get easily annoyed, have trouble focusing, my memory has gotten bad, I became so forgetful, and it's just a bit confusing as these things are also symptoms of my mental illness.

I have been experiencing excessive hair fall, and I have a dry hair and skin. I am really skinny but I have these love handles fat ever since I was a teen. I have irregular menstrual periods, the longest delay I've experienced was 4 months. I notice I do not have interest in sex unlike people at my age. I also noticed delay in puberty. I am 20 years old but I do not see growth in my body. My pubic and underarm hairs just started growing when I was about to turn 19 and I think that is too delay. I would like to know if it's possible that I have hypothyroidism, what might be the cause and how it is treated.

Answered by Dr. Prathish Kumar

Hi

I think you have already done a lot of surfing and research by yourself. Regarding your doubt, yes, hypothyroidism and depression are interlinked. Depression is more common in people suffering from hypothyroidism. And your irregular menstrual cycles and pubertal developmental delays may also be linked to hypothyroidism. You need to be trusted for the same and also other some investigations as I have adviced below. Review me with the reports. I need to know your height and weight and blood pressure.

The Probable causes

Developmental

Investigations to be done

CBC, RBS, URINE ROUTINE FREE T4 & T3, TSH ECG RFT, SERUM SODIUM & POTASSIUM

Differential diagnosis

Hypopituitarism

Probable diagnosis

Hypothyroidism

Regarding follow up

Review with investigations

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Prathish Kumar
Dr. Prathish Kumar

General Medicine

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