What is myxedema coma?
Myxedema coma is a condition where long-term hypothyroidism is not treated or is poorly controlled. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland makes too little or no thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ that is located in the front part of the neck. Thyroid hormones help control body functions, such as heart rate, growth, and body temperature. The thyroid hormones also control how the body uses energy, and affect weight gain and loss. With myxedema coma, the heart, lungs, brain, and other organs do not work correctly. Not all patients who have this condition have myxedema (swelling of the skin) or fall into a coma. Being comatose means the patient is in a sleep-like state, and does not respond to voice, touch, or pain. Myxedema coma affects women over 60 years of age more than other people.
