Hypothyroidism and Mental and Emotional Health of Females Aged 30-45 Years in Belagavi - An Exploratory Observational Study

Abstract

Background The rising incidence of thyroid dysfunction especially among middle-aged females necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the mental and emotional challenges they face.Objectives To assess the mental and emotional health of females aged 30-45 with hypothyroidism identify factors that may predispose them to thyroid dysfunction and explore its psychological impact including effects on physical appearance self-esteem and reproductive health.Methods A pilot study was undertaken to screen females for hypothyroid dysfunction using Zulewskirsquos clinical score inclusive of school and college teachers at A.M Shaikh Group of Institutions and other females around Nehru Nagar Belagavi visiting AMSC OPDs. As per the scale the subjects scoring above 5 were considered clinically to have hypothyroid dysfunction.Results Out of 111 females in the age range of 30-45 years who were provided with Zulewskirsquos rating scale 61 females scored between 0-2 32 scored between 3-5 and 18 scored above 6. This showed that 55 were Euthyroid 29 had subclinical hypothyroidism and 16 had clinical hypothyroidism. Fifty subjects who were found to have clinical subclinical hypothyroid dysfunction on the rating scale were provided with self designed open-ended questionnaire in order to elicit presence of mental and emotional difficulties.Conclusion The study aimed to identify common circumstantial factors contributing to thyroid dysfunction in this demographic and explored the psychological impact of thyroid dysfunction. It underscores the significance of early thyroid function screening to enhance patient care and treatment. Additionally the study examined the mental and emotional difficulties faced by females in multitasking roles and their potential link to thyroid dysfunction. The research offered suggestions for managing these challenges and promoting thyroid health