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

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Hashimoto's disease

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

Additional names

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

General

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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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

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike

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