Understanding Hashimoto's disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

What is it?

Hashimoto's disease, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. In this condition, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage.

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Additional names

This group contains additional names:
- Chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis
- Thyroiditis

Signs & symptoms

The symptoms of Hashimoto's disease may develop slowly over time and can include:

- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Cold intolerance
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Hair loss
- Joint pain
- Depression
- Memory problems
- Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Hashimoto's disease involves a physical exam, blood tests, and possibly a thyroid biopsy. Blood tests may show elevated levels of thyroid antibodies or decreased levels of thyroid hormone.

Treatment

The treatment of Hashimoto's disease is focused on managing the symptoms and preventing complications. This may include:

- Hormone replacement therapy with thyroid hormone medication to replace the hormone that the thyroid gland is not producing adequately
- Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels and adjusting medication dosages as needed
- Managing other health conditions that may worsen the symptoms of Hashimoto's disease, such as diabetes or high cholesterol
- Avoiding iodine supplements or excess iodine in the diet, as it can exacerbate the condition
- Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider

☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.

Learn more about our editorial process for content accuracy.

Source of Information - We analyze big data of more than 23 million patients de-identified medical records from the following sources:

National Institution of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ University of Illinois hospital