Apathetic Hypothyroidism AKA Hypothyroidism in the Elderly
Remember that elderly do not present with classic signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism, but rather it is more common for them to have atypical presentations.
Things that make the diagnosis more difficult in the elderly are:
The thyroid gland is often difficult to palpate.
Symptoms like weight gain, cold intolerance, and mental and physical decline are often attributed to the normal aging process.
Symptoms are often attributed to medications, or medications mask some of their symptoms.
Consider the diagnosis in elderly patients with:
Arrthymias
New onset dementia or increased “forgetfulness”
Depression
Failure to thrive
Anemia
Hyponatremia
References
Thyroid disorders in elderly patients. Rehman SU, Cope DW, Senseney AD, Brzezi South Med J. 2005 May;98(5):543-9. Review.
