Question 1

how concerned should i be of  myxedema coma?

Accepted Answer

Very concerned: With modern screening for hypothyroidism this isn't seen as commonly, but it is a life threatening condition that needs to be treated in a hospital. Frequently patients require intensive care and there can be deaths even when it is treated appropriately. It usually takes a long time to develop and regular health screenings should prevent it from ever getting to this stage.

Question 2

do symptoms like myxedema coma go away quickly?

Accepted Answer

May threaten life: Myxedema coma is a life-threatening condition in which a patient has long-standing (usually unrecognized) hypothyroidism that is exacerbated by an acute illness (infection, drugs, other stresses to body), leading to multi-organ failure. The patient may need treatment for heart failure, hypothermia, breathing problems, dehydration, low glucose, low adrenal function among others.

Question 3

what is the definition or description of: myxedema coma?

Accepted Answer

Coma: This is a state of unconsciousness, unresponsive to your environment or stimulation is the normal way.  Myxedema refers to a thyroid deficiency which can cause neurologic damage, and in extreme cases, coma.

Question 4

what's the onset of myxedema coma? (do people collapse, become drowsy etc.)

Accepted Answer

? thyroid storm ?: Myxedema is a condition caused by severe alterations in fluid balance due to thyroid disorder.  There can be swellings in various tissues including around the eyes and into the brain.  There is a hyper state with agitation (myxedema madness), or deterioration of consciousness with stupor and coma.  Usually there are early signs that the thyroid is out of control, but acute thyroid storm may occur.

Question 5

if hypothyroidism is untreated, can myxedema coma occur?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Although rare today, myxedema coma can occur after months of untreated hypothyroidism.

Question 6

how long can an individual who's had a total thyroidectomy go without any thyroid medicine before having organ failure, myxedema coma, etc.?

Accepted Answer

Low thyroid surgery: F of unknown age or medical Hx asks: How long can an individual who's had a total thyroidectomy go without any thyroid medicine before having organ failure, myxedema coma, etc.? ANS: low thyroid is evident by 4-6 weeks. It may take months to develop myxedema and its complications.

Question 7

can you go into myxedema coma with normal free t4 and t3 but tsh in 3-4 range? or would your tsh be way higher?

Accepted Answer

Unusual: It would be distinctly unusual to have true myxedema coma with these numbers.  However, it is the clinical scenario that is relevant in myxedema coma, with the appropriate history and stressors in the appropriate age group.

Question 8

what would cause someone to fall into a coma?

Accepted Answer

Multiple causes: Trauma to the head, severe brain infection, stroke, or any disease that prevents enough blood flow to the brain can induce coma.

Question 9

does a homeostatic imbalance cause a person to be in a coma?

Accepted Answer

No: Coma is an exceedingly complex subject, and far beyond the scope of our role here onsite.  But if you have a specific question regarding yourself or another, provide additional information, and we would be happy to address this, perhaps in the format of a Concierge visit.

Question 10

what types of meningitis can cause a coma?

Accepted Answer

Most organisms: Bad stuff if coma occurs with bacterial or tuberculous meningitis, and if fungal infection, may create critical issues.  Viral meningitis may have a far more benign  course, but NOT always.  Coma is a sign of progressive uncontrolled infection, so, early diagnosis and treatment always the wisest approach.

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Doctor answers about:

Cause of myxedema coma

A member asked:

How concerned should i be of myxedema coma?

A member asked:

Do symptoms like myxedema coma go away quickly?

A member asked:

What is the definition or description of: myxedema coma?

A member asked:

What's the onset of myxedema coma? (do people collapse, become drowsy etc.)

A member asked:

If hypothyroidism is untreated, can myxedema coma occur?

A member asked:

How long can an individual who's had a total thyroidectomy go without any thyroid medicine before having organ failure, myxedema coma, etc.?

A member asked:

Can you go into myxedema coma with normal free t4 and t3 but tsh in 3-4 range? or would your tsh be way higher?

A member asked:

What would cause someone to fall into a coma?

A member asked:

Does a homeostatic imbalance cause a person to be in a coma?

A member asked:

What types of meningitis can cause a coma?

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