What is the thyroid?

The thyroid is an endocrine organ that secretes thyroid
hormones called T4 and T3.
Thyroid hormones control metabolic activity by increasing or
decreasing hormone levels.
They play a variety of roles in the body, and in particular, heat
production and protein production functions are considered to
be significantly related to hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism,
and characteristic symptoms are observed when these functions
are compromised.

About hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a disease commonly seen in older dogs, and is caused by a deficiency in thyroid hormones (mainly T4).
The primary cause of hypothyroidism is destruction of thyroid tissue due to immune mediated disease. Toy poodles, Miniature schnauzers, American cocker spaniels, and Shiba-inu’s are the most genetically predisosed breeds in Japan. Decrease in metabolic activity caused by thyroid function decline, leads to changes in first the general state of the body followed by more localized changes in the face and hair, etc.

Treatment and post-onset life

The basis of treatment is thyroid hormone replacement.
Medication is given once or twice daily to stabilize thyroid hormone levels.
Hormone levels are measured approximately 2 weeks after the start of treatment to comfirm whether there is a therapeutic response to the hormone agent, or symptoms indicating transition to hyperthyroidism due to overdosage.
Medications may be increased or decreased depending on hormone levels, and if there is no improvement in symptoms or hormone levels, ESS or other underlying diseases may need to be identified.
Lifelong hormone therapy is essential because an underactive thyroid gland is not curable.
Once symptoms improve and blood hormone levels stabilize with replacement therapy, the patient can be transitioned to regular checkups every 6 months, and treatment is continued.

Please consult us if you notice any symptoms of concern.🐾