What is the Origin of Stress-Induced Hypothyroidism?

This term unites "Stress-Induced," pointing to the etiological factor of allostatic load, with "Hypothyroidism," the clinical state of insufficient thyroid hormone effect. The recognition of this link stems from understanding the cross-talk between the HPA axis (stress response) and the HPT axis. It falls under the umbrella of psychoneuroendocrinology.

What is the Mechanism of Stress-Induced Hypothyroidism?

The mechanism involves high levels of glucocorticoids, released during chronic stress, exerting a direct inhibitory effect on the hypothalamus, reducing Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone (TRH) secretion, and on the pituitary, reducing Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) release. Furthermore, systemic inflammation associated with stress can impair the peripheral conversion of T4 to the active T3 metabolite via type 1 deiodinase inhibition. Addressing the underlying chronic stress is paramount to restoring euthyroid status.

Stress-Induced Hypothyroidism ∞ Area

Stress-Induced Hypothyroidism

Meaning

Stress-Induced Hypothyroidism describes a state of reduced thyroid hormone action, often transient, resulting from chronic or severe physiological stress impacting the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis. This condition is characterized biochemically by suppressed T3/T4 levels, sometimes accompanied by normal or mildly elevated TSH, reflecting central dampening of the axis under duress. It is a manifestation of the body prioritizing survival over metabolic regulation.