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All about Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of this condition by lelandhiggins
Estimated reading time: 2 min 13 sec
All about Hashimoto’s thyroiditis Photo by Miguel Á. Padriñán on Pexels

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland.

The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, responsible for producing hormones that help regulate metabolism.

Symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

The symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can be mild or severe and may develop slowly over several years or even decades. Common symptoms include:.

  • Fatigue
  • Weight gain
  • Depression
  • Sensitivity to cold
  • Dry skin
  • Constipation
  • Muscle weakness
  • Joint pain and stiffness
  • Heavy or irregular periods in women
  • Goiter (swelling in the neck) in some cases

Causes of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

The exact cause of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is not known, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

The immune system mistakes the thyroid gland as a foreign body and produces antibodies that damage the thyroid gland, leading to an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism).

Related Article Understanding Hashimoto’s thyroiditis Understanding Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

Diagnosis of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

Your healthcare provider may perform the following tests to diagnose Hashimoto’s thyroiditis:.

  • Physical exam to check for signs of an enlarged thyroid gland
  • Blood tests to check the levels of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
  • Antibody tests to check for the presence of antibodies that attack the thyroid gland (thyroid peroxidase antibodies and thyroglobulin antibodies)
  • Thyroid ultrasound to check for any abnormalities in the thyroid gland

Treatment of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

The treatment for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is aimed at managing the symptoms and preventing complications. Your healthcare provider may prescribe:.

  • Levothyroxine (Synthroid, Levoxyl) medication to replace the missing thyroid hormone, if you have an underactive thyroid gland
  • Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to relieve joint pain and stiffness
  • Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), to help manage depression
  • Thyroid hormone replacement therapy if you have an underactive thyroid gland

Lifestyle changes for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

You can manage the symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis with some lifestyle changes, including:.

  • Eating a healthy and balanced diet
  • Avoiding iodine-rich foods and supplements, as excess iodine can worsen the symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
  • Getting enough rest and sleep
  • Engaging in regular physical activity
  • Reducing stress through relaxation techniques, such as yoga and meditation

Complications of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

If left untreated, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can lead to the following complications:.

  • Goiter (swelling in the neck)
  • Pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage, low birth weight, and premature delivery
  • Myxedema coma, a life-threatening condition that can occur if hypothyroidism is left untreated for a prolonged period of time
  • Heart problems, such as an enlarged heart and heart failure

Prevention of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

There is no known way to prevent Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, but you can reduce your risk by:.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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