Subacute thyroiditis is a condition that affects the thyroid gland, a small gland located at the base of the neck. This condition is also called De Quervain’s thyroiditis.

Subacute thyroiditis is often seen in women and the condition is characterized by inflammation of the thyroid gland. The inflammation of the gland causes the release of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream, leading to symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

Over time, the thyroid gland becomes damaged, and the release of the hormone decreases, leading to symptoms of hypothyroidism.

1. Pain in the neck, jaw, and ear

Pain is one of the most common symptoms of subacute thyroiditis. The pain can be felt in the neck, jaw, or ear. In some cases, the pain may be more severe on one side of the neck than the other. The pain may become worse when turning the head or swallowing.

The pain may last for a few days to several weeks and then subside.

2. Swelling in the neck

Another symptom of subacute thyroiditis is swelling in the neck. The swollen area may be tender to the touch. This swelling is due to inflammation of the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck.

The swelling may be mild or severe, depending on the degree of inflammation.

3. Hyperthyroidism symptoms

Subacute thyroiditis can cause symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as increased heart rate, palpitations, anxiety, tremors, weight loss, and insomnia.

These symptoms occur due to the release of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream from the inflamed thyroid gland. These symptoms may last for a few weeks to months, and then subside.

4. Hypothyroidism symptoms

As the inflammation of the thyroid gland subsides, the gland becomes damaged, and there is a decrease in the release of thyroid hormones.

This leads to symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and cold intolerance. These symptoms may last for several weeks to months, depending on the severity of thyroid damage.

Related Article All About Subacute Thyroiditis

5. Fever and fatigue

Fever and fatigue are common symptoms of subacute thyroiditis. The fever is usually low-grade and may be accompanied by chills. The fatigue may be severe and may affect the person’s ability to perform daily activities.

These symptoms usually occur during the acute phase of the condition and may last for a few weeks to months.

6. Headaches

Headaches are relatively common in subacute thyroiditis. These headaches may be severe and pounding and may be worse in the morning. The headaches may be due to inflammation of the thyroid gland, which can irritate the nearby nerves and blood vessels.

7. Eye symptoms

Some people with subacute thyroiditis may experience eye symptoms, such as redness, pain, and swelling. These symptoms occur due to inflammation of the tissues surrounding the eyes.

In some cases, the eye symptoms may be associated with double vision or difficulty moving the eyes.

8. Joint and muscle pain

Joint and muscle pain are relatively common symptoms of subacute thyroiditis. The joint pain may affect the larger joints, such as the shoulders, hips, and knees, while the muscle pain may affect the neck, shoulders, and upper arms.

These symptoms may be due to the release of inflammatory substances into the bloodstream from the inflamed thyroid gland.

9. Hair loss

Hair loss is a relatively common symptom of subacute thyroiditis. The hair loss may occur due to the decreased release of thyroid hormones from the damaged thyroid gland.

The hair loss may occur in patches or diffusely and may be accompanied by brittle nails and dry skin.

10. Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet

Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet may occur in some people with subacute thyroiditis. These symptoms may be due to nerve irritation or damage caused by the inflammation of the thyroid gland.

The tingling or numbness may be temporary or permanent, depending on the degree of nerve damage.