Neurological and psycho-emotional manifestations of hyperthyroidism during pregnancy

Abstract

Background. Hyperthyroidism is a state of thyroid hormone excess, which increases the metabolic rate and causes symptoms including anxiety and tremor. Graves’ disease is the most common etiology in developed countries. Excessive levels of thyroid hormones can impact mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. It is crucial to differentiate between symptoms related to thyroid function and clinical depression. The purpose of the study was to investigate the neurological and psycho-emotional manifestations of hyperthyroidism during pregnancy. Materials and methods. An examination of 50 pregnant women with subclinical and overt hyperthyroidism and 20 healthy women (control group) in the second trimester of pregnancy using the method of standardized multivariate personality study was carried out. Results. Based on the results of the study, it can be argued that pregnant women with thyrotoxicosis have changes in the psycho-emotional sphere: psychological maladaptation to the disease, an increase in the level of anxiety with hypochondriac tendencies, neuroticism, a decrease in intellectual performance and activity, a pronounced feeling of depression, anxiety, low mood. The identified criteria allow us to attribute these changes to the personality pattern or to the manifestations of a pathological neurotic state in conditions of mal­adaptation. The specific condition and behavior of pregnant women with thyrotoxicosis requires timely diagnosis and appropriate correction, which will contribute to the normalization and improvement of the psychological state, prevent the development of chronic stress and the occurrence of perinatal complications. Conclusions. Pregnant women with thyrotoxicosis have changes in the psycho-emotional sphere: psychological maladaptation to the disease, an increase in the level of anxiety with hypochondriac tendencies, neuroticism, a decrease in intellectual performance and activity, a pronounced feeling of depression and anxiety.