Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. This condition causes inflammation of the thyroid gland which leads to hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid.

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States, and it affects mostly women than men.

What Causes Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis?

The exact cause of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is unknown, but research suggests that it is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

The autoimmune disorders occur because the immune system wrongly forms antibodies that attach thyroid cells and tissues. These antibodies cause inflammation of the thyroid gland, which leads to the impairment of the gland’s ability to produce thyroid hormones.

The following are some of the factors that are believed to trigger the development of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis:.

Genetic factors
A diet low in iodine
Exposure to radiation
Gender- women are more likely to develop Hashimoto’s thyroiditis than men
Age- the condition often affects people over the age of 60 years

What are the Symptoms of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis?

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a progressive disease, and the symptoms may develop slowly over a period of years. The following are the most common symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis:.

1. Fatigue

People with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis often experience fatigue, which may be due to the reduced production of thyroid hormones. The thyroid hormones are responsible for regulating metabolism, energy production, and body temperature.

2. Weight gain

Weight gain is another common symptom of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. The reduced production of thyroid hormones slows down the metabolism, which leads to weight gain and difficulty in losing weight.

3. Cold intolerance

People with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may feel cold even in warm temperatures. This is because of the reduced production of thyroid hormones, which regulates the body temperature.

4. Constipation

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can cause constipation due to the reduced production of thyroid hormones, which affect the digestive system and slow down the bowel movements.

5. Dry skin

The reduced production of thyroid hormones can also lead to dry skin, hair loss, and brittle nails. The thyroid hormones are essential for maintaining healthy skin and hair.

6. Depression

People with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may experience depression due to the reduced production of thyroid hormones, which affect mood regulation.

7. Menstrual irregularities

Women with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may experience menstrual irregularities, including heavy or prolonged periods. The thyroid hormones play an essential role in regulating the menstrual cycle.

Diagnosis of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

The diagnosis of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis involves a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging tests. Blood tests are used to measure the level of thyroid hormones and antibodies in the bloodstream.

Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, may be used to check the size and texture of the thyroid gland.

Treatment of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

There is no cure for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, but the condition can be managed with medications such as levothyroxine. The medication replaces the missing thyroid hormones and helps in restoring the thyroid function.

Regular monitoring of the thyroid function through blood tests is essential in managing the condition.

Conclusion

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a progressive autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland.

The condition causes hypothyroidism, which leads to a range of symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, depression, and menstrual irregularities. The condition is usually diagnosed through physical examination, blood tests, and imaging tests, and it is treated with medications such as levothyroxine. Regular monitoring of the thyroid function is essential in managing the condition.