Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism (having too low levels of thyroid hormones) in the United States. The condition was named after Dr. Hakaru Hashimoto, the doctor who described it in 1912. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is caused by an auto-immune process that causes inflammation of the thyroid gland. Symptoms and signs of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis resemble those of hypothyroidism generally and are often subtle. They are not specific (which means they can mimic the symptoms of many other conditions) and are often attributed to aging. Patients with mild hypothyroidism may have no signs or symptoms. The symptoms generally become more obvious as the condition worsens, and the majority of these complaints are related to a metabolic slowing of the body.
What are the symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
Symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are those of hypothyroidism and include:
- feeling cold
- depression
- dry skin
- constipation
- fatigue
- sleepiness
- weight gain
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is diagnosed by blood tests that measure thyroid gland function and blood tests that look for antibodies against proteins found in the thyroid gland. The treatment for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is oral administration of thyroid hormones to maintain normal levels. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition and cannot be prevented. The prognosis for someone with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is excellent with proper treatment.
What causes Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a condition caused by inflammation of the thyroid gland. It is an autoimmune disease, which means that the body inappropriately attacks the thyroid gland – as if it was foreign tissue. The underlying cause of the autoimmune process remains unknown. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis tends to occur in families. It can be associated with other autoimmune conditions such as type 1 diabetes or celiac disease. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is 5 to 10 times more common in women than in men and most often starts in adulthood. Blood drawn from people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis typically reveals an increased number of antibodies against thyroid-specific proteins, including thyroperoxidase and thyroglobulin. T lymphocytes, a type of cell involved in the inflammation process, invade the thyroid gland cause silent, painless inflammation that destroys it; ultimately, the individual produces little or no thyroid hormone and becomes hypothyroid.
Don’t ignore the signs …..
You need to take your health seriously – if you feel that you are experiencing any health issues which could be associated with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis then contact your doctor immediately. It is better to be safe than sorry!
Finding a natural approach to medication is where Dr Alain Sanua comes in. As a qualified doctor of homeopathy and naturopathy – Dr Alain Sanua will have a healthier solution to your health issues. From Hashimoto’s thyroiditis to irritable bowel syndrome, Dr Alain Sanua will be able to assist you.