Why do patients with hypothyroidism experience edema?

　　Hypothyroidism generally refers to hypofunction of the thyroid gland. In general, patients with hypothyroidism may develop edema due to several factors, including reduced basal metabolic rate, water and sodium metabolic disturbances, insufficient thyroid hormone secretion, renal dysfunction, and weakened cardiovascular function. If discomfort symptoms occur, timely consultation and treatment at a reputable hospital are recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

　　1. Reduced Basal Metabolic Rate

　　Patients with hypothyroidism often have a deficiency of thyroid hormones, which leads to a significantly decreased basal metabolic rate, reduced energy consumption, and slower metabolic processes. This results in the accumulation of water and metabolic waste in the body, causing edema. Mild physical activities such as walking or yoga can help enhance metabolism and promote water excretion.

　　2. Water and Sodium Metabolic Disturbances

　　Insufficient thyroid hormone can impair the kidney's ability to regulate water and sodium, increasing reabsorption of water and sodium in the renal tubules, leading to water and sodium retention and subsequent interstitial edema. Intake of high-salt foods such as pickled vegetables and salted meats should be reduced to avoid exacerbating water and sodium retention.

　　3. Insufficient Thyroid Hormone Secretion

　　Inadequate thyroid hormone secretion causes increased mucoprotein in the interstitial spaces throughout the body. These mucoproteins have strong water-absorbing properties that cause water accumulation in the tissue spaces, resulting in mucinous edema. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy under medical guidance is necessary, such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid extract tablets, and liothyronine sodium tablets.

　　4. Renal Dysfunction

　　Long-term hypothyroidism may impair renal blood perfusion and glomerular filtration function, potentially causing mild renal dysfunction, reduced water excretion, and subsequent edema. Regular kidney function tests, such as urinalysis and serum creatinine measurements, should be conducted to monitor changes in kidney function. Renal protective medications such as Jinshuibao Capsules, Bailing Capsules, and Uremic Clear Granules may be used under medical supervision.

　　5. Weakened Cardiovascular Function

　　Thyroid hormone deficiency weakens myocardial contractility and reduces cardiac output, slowing blood circulation and causing venous stasis, which increases vascular pressure and forces water into the interstitial spaces, causing edema. Patients may use cardiovascular function-improving medications such as Shensong Yangxin Capsules, Wending Granules, and Coenzyme Q10 tablets under medical guidance.

　　In daily life, maintaining a balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins, such as lean meats, fish, and fresh vegetables, is important. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and avoiding excessive fatigue can also aid in restoring bodily functions.