Health A-Z

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and eventual damage. Here's an overview of its symptoms, treatment plan, and diagnosis testing.

1. Fatigue: Feeling tired and lethargic, even after getting enough sleep.
2. Weight Gain: Unexplained weight gain, despite maintaining normal eating habits and physical activity levels.
3. Sensitivity to Cold: Feeling excessively cold, particularly in the hands and feet.
4. Constipation: Sluggish bowel movements and difficulty passing stools.
5. Dry Skin and Hair: Dry, rough skin and brittle hair.
6. Hoarseness: Changes in voice quality, such as hoarseness.
7. Muscle Weakness: Weakness and aches in muscles, especially in the arms and legs.
8. Joint Pain: Pain and stiffness in the joints, resembling symptoms of arthritis.
9. Menstrual Irregularities: Irregular menstrual periods or heavy menstrual bleeding in women.
10. Depression: Symptoms of depression, including low mood, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.

1. Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy: The main treatment for Hashimoto's thyroiditis is thyroid hormone replacement therapy. This typically involves taking synthetic thyroid hormone medication, such as levothyroxine, to replace the deficient thyroid hormone levels. Dosage is adjusted based on blood tests measuring thyroid hormone levels and symptoms.
2. Regular Monitoring: Regular monitoring of thyroid function through blood tests, including thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (T4) levels, is essential to ensure that hormone levels are within the target range.
3. Lifestyle Modifications: Making healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep, can help support overall well-being and thyroid health.
4. Supplements: Some individuals may benefit from supplements such as selenium, which may help reduce inflammation and support thyroid function.
5. Treatment of Symptoms: Additional medications or treatments may be prescribed to manage specific symptoms, such as depression or joint pain, as needed.

1. Thyroid Function Tests: Blood tests measuring levels of thyroid hormones (TSH, T4) are used to assess thyroid function. In Hashimoto's thyroiditis, TSH levels are typically elevated, indicating hypothyroidism, while T4 levels may be normal or low.
2. Thyroid Antibody Tests: Blood tests measuring antibodies associated with autoimmune thyroiditis, such as thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO antibodies) and thyroglobulin antibodies (TG antibodies), can help confirm the diagnosis of Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
3. Thyroid Ultrasound: Ultrasound imaging of the thyroid gland may be performed to assess for signs of inflammation, enlargement (goiter), or structural abnormalities.
4. Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to evaluate thyroid nodules or to confirm the diagnosis in cases where there is uncertainty.