Thyroiditis
On this page:
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis is a type of autoimmune thyroid disease in which the
immune system attacks and destroys the thyroid gland. The thyroid helps set the
rate of metabolism - the rate at which the body uses energy. Hashimoto’s
prevents the gland from producing enough thyroid hormones for the body to work
correctly. It is the most common form of Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).
Return to top 
An autoimmune disease occurs when the body's immune system becomes
misdirected and attacks the organs, cells or tissues that it was designed to
protect. About 75% of autoimmune diseases occur in women, most frequently during
their childbearing years.
Return to top
Some patients with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis may have no symptoms. However, the
common symptoms are fatigue, depression, and sensitivity to cold, weight gain,
muscle weakness, coarsening of the skin, dry or brittle hair, constipation,
muscle cramps, increased menstrual flow, and goiter (enlargement of the thyroid
gland).
Return to top
There is some evidence that Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis can have a hereditary
link. If autoimmune diseases run in your family, you are at a higher risk of
developing one yourself.
Return to top
Your doctor will perform a simple blood test that will be able to tell if
your body has the correct amount of thyroid hormones. This test measures the
blood TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) to determine if the thyroid hormone
levels are in the normal range. The range is set by your doctor and should be
discussed with you. Work with your doctor to find what level is right for you.
Return to top
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis can usually be treated with thyroid hormone
replacement. A small pill taken once a day should be able to regulate the
thyroid hormone in the body to normal levels. This medication will, in most
cases, need to be taken for the rest of the patient's life. When trying to
determine the correct hormone dosage, you may have to return to your doctor
several times for adjustments in medication. A yearly visit to your health care
provider will help keep your levels normal and help maintain normal health. Be
aware of the symptoms. If you note any changes or the return of symptoms, return
to your doctor to see if you need to have your medication changed.
Return to top
If left untreated, Hashimoto's Thyroiditis can cause further complications,
including changes in menstrual cycles, prevention of ovulation, and an increased
risk of miscarriage. It is also important to know that too much thyroid replacement
hormone can mimic the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. This is a condition that
occurs from overproduction of thyroid hormones. These symptoms include insomnia,
irritability, weight loss without dieting, heat sensitivity, increased perspiration,
thinning of your skin, fine or brittle hair, muscular weakness, eye changes,
lighter menstrual flow, rapid heart beat and hand tremors.
Return to top
National Institute of
Diabetes & Digestive Diseases and Kidney Diseases
Thyroid Foundation of America
Return to top
Anorexia
