What Is Myxedema Coma?
Myxedema coma is the most severe form of hypothyroidism — a medical emergency.
Symptoms
- Hypothermia (below 95°F/35°C)
- Extreme bradycardia
- Altered consciousness → coma
- Non-pitting edema
- Respiratory failure
- Hyponatremia
- Hypoglycemia
Triggers
- Cold exposure
- Infection
- Medications (sedatives, opioids)
- Surgery
- Stopping thyroid medication
Treatment
- ICU admission
- IV thyroid hormone (T3 and/or T4)
- Corticosteroids (until adrenal insufficiency excluded)
- Supportive care (warming, ventilation)
Mortality
- 30–60% even with treatment
- Early recognition is critical
Source: American Thyroid Association, NLM MedlinePlus.
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