However many patients may be asymptomatic and in these patients often the condition is diagnosed by the doctor who orders the test based on clinical suspicion and examination. Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to progressive weight gain, thickening of the skin, dulling and slowing of the mental process. The heart can become enlarged and not function properly. Fluid can accumulate in the bag that surrounds the heart. The arteries that supply the heart can also become clogged - leading to heart attacks.
Hypothyroidism can also lead to menstrual irregularity and infertility in women.
In addition, it can also cause depression and a psychotic condition called myxedema madness. In extremely severe hypothyroidism every body function becomes slowed down and the patient may lose consciousness - a condition called myxedema coma. Persons with any of the above symptoms must be tested for hypothyroidism. Persons with a swelling of the thyroid. All new born children must have a thyroid test on the fourth day after delivery - hypothyroidism occurs in 1 out of every 4000 children born and is the most correctable form of mental retardation if detected early.