For such reviews, no new GRADE assessments will be conducted because they involve an assessment of primary studies. The critical appraisal of all selected systematic reviews will be conducted in tandem with data extraction, using the AMSTAR (A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews) tool. This checklist was designed to assess the methodological quality of systematic reviews of randomised trials [25] and is currently in its second version, AMSTAR-2 [see Additional File 4].
When it comes to our health, we often focus on individual conditions without considering how they might be interconnected. One such link that has been gaining attention is the relationship between gum disease and subclinical hypothyroidism. Both of these conditions can have serious implications for overall health, and understanding how they are related can be key to effective treatment.
These data support the thesis that our patient’s TSH is persistently increased and, therefore, she suffers from moderate SCH. We will use controlled vocabularies and search terms directly related to the review questions such as ‘treatment’, ‘levothyroxine’ and ‘subclinical hypothyroidism’ which will be modified, as needed, to account for database-specific differences. The MEDLINE search strategy, developed with the assistance of an academic librarian, is shown in Additional file 2. Although the quality of life evidence was mixed the committee thought that targeting treatment at specific groups that were more likely to benefit would maximise the likelihood of treatment being cost effective.. Overall, treating symptomatic patients compared to treating patients according to their TSH levels only, is likely to be cost saving. This reduces prescriptions, unnecessary continuation of treatment, compliance issues, and costs.
It’s usually recommended that you take your tablet (or tablets) in the morning, although some people prefer to take them at night. Levothyroxine replaces the thyroxine hormone, which your thyroid does not make enough of. Both men and women can have an underactive thyroid, although it’s more common in women.
Common signs of an underactive thyroid are tiredness, weight gain and feeling depressed. This umbrella review will be conducted as part of a PhD studentship funded by the School of Medicine, University of St Andrews. The University of St Andrews played no role in the design and development of this protocol. The findings of this umbrella review will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed journals, via social media networks and relevant conferences. Any amendments to this protocol in the carrying out of this umbrella review will be documented and reported in both the PROSPERO register and any subsequent publications. Review findings will be synthesised narratively, as it is anticipated that there will be several differences in inclusion criteria, methods of synthesis and outcome measures.
The Connection Between Gum Disease and Subclinical Hypothyroidism
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects the gums and tissues supporting the teeth. Subclinical hypothyroidism, on the other hand, is a mild form of underactive thyroid function that may not present with noticeable symptoms. Research has suggested that there may be a link between these two conditions, with individuals who have subclinical hypothyroidism being at a higher risk for developing gum disease.
Fatigue, muscle weakness, weight gain, cold intolerance, and constipation have been reported as sHypo symptoms [13]. Mild memory impairment and mood changes have been identified in middle-aged patients with grade 2 sHypo [60]. Functional magnetic resonance imaging suggested that working memory may be impaired in individuals with sHypo [61]. However, a small proportion of asymptomatic sHypo subjects have superior well-being compared with euthyroid individuals as assessed using general health questionnaires and neuropsychological tests [62].
The BMJ reserves the right to remove responses which are being wilfully misrepresented as published articles or when it is brought to our attention that a response spreads misinformation. The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck, just in front of the windpipe (trachea). For example, if you are an age where you may be expecting the menopause, you may think you have started the menopause rather than having an underactive thyroid.
How Can the NHS Help?
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: The NHS offers dental services that can help detect and treat gum disease early on.
- Thyroid Testing: If you suspect you may have subclinical hypothyroidism, the NHS can provide testing and treatment options.
- Integrated Care: By working with healthcare professionals across different specialties, the NHS can provide integrated care for individuals with multiple health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can gum disease be a symptom of subclinical hypothyroidism?
- How can I prevent gum disease if I have subclinical hypothyroidism?
- Should I inform my dentist if I have subclinical hypothyroidism?
While not a direct symptom, research suggests there may be a link between the two conditions.
Maintaining good oral hygiene and seeking regular dental care can help prevent gum disease.
Yes, informing your dentist of any underlying health conditions is important for comprehensive care.
