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Thyroiditis

Thyroiditis typically refers to an inflamed thyroid gland -a small gland located in the neck that produces hormones to regulate metabolism. There are several types of thyroiditis:

  • Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: It is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage.
  • Subacute Thyroiditis: This type of Thyroiditis results from a viral infection and can cause temporary hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland) followed by hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland).
  • Silent Thyroiditis: Like subacute Thyroiditis, it is inflammation without pain in the thyroid gland. It can cause temporary hyperthyroidism.
  • Postpartum Thyroiditis: It is common in new mothers and can develop right after they give birth.

Symptoms

Depending on the thyroiditis type people develop, an inflamed thyroid typically results in either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism symptoms which include:

  • Increased weight
  • Dry skin
  • Depressive symptoms
  • Inability to tolerate exercise
  • Constipation

Causes

You may develop Thyroiditis for multiple reasons, including:

  • Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage over time.
  • Subacute Thyroiditis: Viral infection causes this condition, triggering inflammation in the thyroid gland.
  • Silent Thyroiditis: The cause of silent Thyroiditis is not fully understood, but it is considered to be an autoimmune disorder like Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis.
  • Postpartum Thyroiditis: This is an autoimmune response women develop after delivery and is the major cause of postpartum Thyroiditis.

Moreover, radiation and some medicines used for thyroid glands may also cause Thyroiditis.

Risk Factors

You need to be aware of the signs of Thyroiditis due to the following risk factors.

  • Gender: Thyroiditis is more common in women than men, particularly Hashimoto’s and postpartum thyroiditis.
  • Age: Middle-aged individuals are at higher risk of getting Thyroiditis. If a person is older than 70, the risk rises to 16% and 21%,
  • Family Medical Issue: People with a family history of autoimmune disorders, such as Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, are at an increased risk of developing Thyroiditis.
  • Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy can cause inflammation in thyroid glands.
  • Autoimmune Disorders: If you have diabetes or another autoimmune disorder, you may be prone to Thyroiditis.
  • Pregnancy: Females who delivered a baby can develop postpartum Thyroiditis.

Diagnosis & Complications

Lab tests can help determine whether you have a particular type of Thyroiditis. Your physician will first perform a blood test. Higher production of thyroid hormone shows you may have Thyroiditis. Your hormone levels will be shown to be either too low or too high.

Your amount of thyroid-stimulating hormone is also measured through blood testing. The pituitary gland produces TSH, which impacts the levels of thyroid hormones. Blood tests can also reveal whether your body contains antibodies.

Treatment & Prevention

Beta-blocker is the medication many health providers recommend for hyperthyroidism. This lowers the heart rate and lessens trembling. Since transient hyperthyroidism is common, your doctor will probably reduce this medication’s dosage as your symptoms improve.

Your doctor might advise thyroid hormone replacements if you exhibit hypothyroidism-related symptoms. These assist in re-establishing hormone levels in your body and normalizing metabolism.

It is hard to avoid most thyroiditis instances; however, consulting a medical professional on time can help you avoid the risk of this condition if it necessitates radioactive iodine or radiation therapy.

To begin with, you might be able to offer alternative therapies to reduce your risk of developing Thyroiditis. Talk to the doctor about the risks associated with taking any prescription medications that have been linked to Thyroiditis if you currently take any.

 
 
 

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