Hashimotos thyroiditis

Throat | Rheumatology | Hashimotos thyroiditis (Disease)


Description

Thyroiditis is the inflammation of the thyroid gland. Hashimotos thyroiditis is the most common form of thyroiditis.

Symptoms of Hashimotos thyroiditis include cold intolerance, dry hair, dry skin, neck swelling, thyroid gland enlargement, lethargy, low body temperature, constipation, loss of appetite, weakness, fatigue, and weight gain.

Sometimes Hashimoto’s disease does not cause any noticeable symptoms. The condition may be discovered during investigations for other, perhaps unrelated, medical problems.

Causes and Risk factors

Classified as an autoimmune disorder, Hashimotos thyroiditis is the result of an autoimmune reaction, with antibodies attacking the thyroid gland. The cause of Hashimoto thyroiditis is unknown.

The thyroid gland may become firm, large, and lobulated in Hashimotos thyroiditis, but changes in the thyroid can also be nonpalpable. In the late stages of the disease, the patient may have a lion mask look. Characterized by deep wrinkles in the face around the mouth and chin area, pockets of loose flesh under and around the eye area having the resemblance of a lion.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Tests include: thyroid lab tests, thyroid ultrasound if a mass is present, thyroid scan and/or a CT scan.

Hypothyroidism caused by Hashimotos Thyroiditis is treated with thyroid hormone replacement agents such as levothyroxine or desiccated thyroid extract. A tablet taken once a day generally keeps the thyroid hormone levels normal.

In most cases, the treatment needs to be taken for the rest of the patients life. In the event that hypothyroidism is caused by Hashimotos Thyroiditis, it is recommended that the TSH levels be kept under 3. 0. As long as the patients thyroid is active, the body will continue to attack it, and this can wreak havoc on the patients TSH levels and symptoms. ...