Hasimoto's Thyroiditis

Hasimoto's Thyroiditis is a type of autoimmune thyroid disease and is the most common thyroid disease in the U.S. attacking mostly women and is most prevalent between 45 and 65 years of age. It was also the first disease to be recognized as an autoimmune disease. The immune system is basically attacking and destroying the thyroid gland. Since the thyroid gland is being attacked by the Hasimoto's Thyroiditis, it keeps the thyroid from making the proper amount of hormones for the body to function correctly. There have been some suggestions that Hasimoto's can be hereditary and is associated with Diabetes Type I and celiac disease.

The symptoms of Hasimoto's Thyroiditis are similar to those of hypothyroidism and are often subtle. The symptoms are not specific, meaning they can mimic the symptoms of many other conditions. People with a mild case of Hasimoto's may have no signs or symptoms. As the condition worsens, the signs and symptoms may appear or worsen. These symptoms include: fatigue, depression, slight weight gain, intolerance to cold, excessive sleepiness, dry hair, constipation, dry skin, forgetfulness, muscle cramps and weakness, puffy face, increased menstrual flow, aches and pains, leg swelling and increased cholesterol levels. Occasionally, people with Hasimoto's may have swelling of the thyroid gland in front of the neck, often referred to as goiter.

The hypothyroidism that is caused by Hasimoto's Thyroiditis is treated with a hormone replacement that is taken once a day. This medicine will need to be taken for the rest of the person's life. It might take several blood tests at different times at the doctor's office to determine the right level of hormone needed. It is important that hormone levels are checked yearly and to return if symptoms return or change.

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis can disrupt growth in children and adolescents; therefore it requires close monitoring of growth and possible growth hormone therapy.

If left untreated for an extended period of time, Hashimoto's Thyroiditis may lead to muscle failure and possible heart failure. Hashimoto's encephalopathy is an extremely rare condition associated with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis.

Hasimoto's Thyroiditis - Wrong Diagnosis
Hasimoto's Thyroiditis - Chapter 8