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

how can you get out from a coma?

Accepted Answer

Difficult question: It depends if the underlying reason that caused the coma is reversible or correctable. Even then it is difficult as it depends if there was too much insult to the brain or not. Recovery from coma is such a variable thing that it is difficult to answer without knowing about the specific situation. I wish i could be of more help on this, its just such a complicated thing.

Question 9

can you voluntarily fall into a coma?

Accepted Answer

Voluntary coma: You cannot wish yourself into coma.  Obviously there are actions you can take that will cause you to go into real coma from drugs etc..

Question 10

what's an easy way to get into a coma?

Accepted Answer

Get into coma: This is an unusual question.  Are you indicating an interest in going into coma to escape events in your life?  I would consult a psychiatrist or psychologist to deal with your feelings.

Get Virtual Care

For Businesses

About Us

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Doctor answers about:

Myxedema coma in children

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:

How can you get out from a coma?

A member asked:

Can you voluntarily fall into a coma?

A member asked:

What's an easy way to get into a coma?

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Telemedicine

Primary Care

Manage Your Conditions

Women's Health

Children's Health

Men's Health

Senior Health

Wellness, Prevention & Lifestyle

Sexual Health

Mental & Behavioral Health

Travel Medicine

Urgent Care

Didn't find what you're looking for?

More of what we treat

Allergies

Antibiotics

Asthma

High Blood Pressure

Prescriptions

Type 2 Diabetes

For Businesses

Company

Health Content

Join Us

Download HealthTap

Questions?