The thyroid is a small gland located in front of the next close to Adam’s apple. The thyroid produces hormones that control the organs in our body. If the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones, then the functionality of the body gets disturbed, and it develops several ailments in our body that can disturb your energy level, weight, and mood.
Thyroiditis happens when the thyroid gets inflamed. At times, it happens because of antibodies produced by our body that mistakenly attack the thyroid. This medical condition is known as autoimmune thyroiditis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, or Hashimoto’s disease.
Causes of Autoimmune Thyroiditis
The reason for the causes of an immune system attack is still under investigation. However, it may happen due to genetic issues, a virus attack, or some other reason. It may be a combination of multiple causes.
An individual may have this condition if you:
- Are a female
- Have been exposed to radiation
- Are a middle-aged person
- Have an ancestral medical background of autoimmune thyroiditis.
- Have a different autoimmune disorder like Diabetes Type 1, Lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis.
Symptoms Autoimmune Thyroiditis
An individual may not experience any symptoms of autoimmune thyroiditis in the beginning. As the disease progresses, the thyroid increases the size, this condition is known as Goiter. The size of the front section of enlarged and looks swollen. If this condition is left untreated your thyroid may shrink, however, it will be not cured. This may damage your thyroid.
Once the thyroid is damaged, it will not be able to function, which further leads to hypothyroidism – a condition of fewer thyroid hormones. You may experience the following symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Enlarged tongue
- Heavy bleeding during periods
- Weight gain
- Problem in passing stools
- Pain in muscles and joints
- Memory loss, and Depression
- Dry Skin
- Puff face
- Hair loss
- Sensitivity to cold
Diagnosis of Autoimmune Thyroiditis
To diagnose autoimmune thyroiditis, your doctor will prescribe some blood tests to examine the thyroid hormone levels also look for thyroid peroxidase antibodies.
In case, your PCP is not satisfied with the blood test results. Your doctor may also suggest for an ultrasound to check the thyroid. It might be possible to identify the problem through a normal blood test even you are not experiencing any symptoms, and you have a family history of thyroid problems.
Treatment of Autoimmune Thyroiditis
The standard treatment is a doctor-prescribed medication known as levothyroxine, Levothroid, Synthroid, Tirosint, etc). These drugs can help improve the health of your thyroid. However, it is always recommended to consult your doctor before taking any medicines.
You can also contact us and book an appointment with our board-certified general surgeon Dr. Valeria Simone MD (Southlake General Surgery, Texas).
You might need to take the medicines throughout your life. Your doctor will keep an eye on your health and may change your medicines with time.
Many food items, such as high fiber meals or soy items can create trouble with levothyroxine. You should discuss with your doctor if your day includes the consumption of:
- Medicines for cholesterol known as cholestyramine
- Iron or calcium supplements
- Medicines for ulcers known as sucralfate
- Antacids that contain aluminium hydroxide
Appointment
For more information on Autoimmune Thyroiditis – Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Consultation. Please contact our healthcare expert today at +1 (817) 748-0200. You can also make an online appointment with us.