Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland. In this condition, the body’s defence mechanism mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and damage to the gland over time. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is more common in women than men and tends to run in families.
Thyroid disorders are prevalent endocrine diseases in the African continent. Hashimoto’s disorder advances gradually, due to the slow progression of this disease, some people do not initially have symptoms. When thyroid hormone production eventually declines, it may result in the following:
In Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, the immune system produces antibodies to fight thyroid cells as if they are viruses or other alien substances. The immune system starts using its built in disease-fighting components that result in damaged cells in the body.
Unfortunately, it is still unclear why the immune system targets thyroid cells. However, some possible causes of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis include the following:
Multiple factors can contribute to developing the symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Take a look at the following:
A thyroid hormone test, a blood test to measure levels of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), are the first diagnostic methods.
Doctors may also check for antibodies like thyroglobulin and peroxidase in response to the immune system reacting to the thyroid gland.
As Hashimoto’s thyroiditis progresses, the thyroid gland may become damaged and unable to produce enough thyroid hormones. This can lead to hypothyroidism, a condition where the body’s metabolism slows down, resulting in fatigue, weight gain, and depression.
In rare cases, severe hypothyroidism caused by Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can lead to myxedema, a life-threatening condition characterized by low blood pressure, low body temperature, and coma.
Hashimoto’s is incurable; however, hormone replacement therapy can control hormone levels and return your metabolism to normal. Your doctor may recommend medication of different strengths to treat specific symptoms. The precise dosage that your doctor recommends will depend on the following:
There is currently no known way to prevent Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, as the exact cause of the disease is not fully understood. However, some ways to prevent this thyroid disease is
Note that these steps are not guaranteed to prevent Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and some people may develop the condition despite following these measures. Early detection and treatment can help manage the symptoms and prevent complications.