Hashimoto’s disease

Overview

Hashimoto’s disease, also known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck, produces hormones essential for regulating various bodily functions. In Hashimoto’s disease, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid, leading to inflammation and impaired hormone production.

Types of Hashimoto’s disease

1. Classic Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: The most common type, characterized by gradual thyroid damage and hypothyroidism.
2. Atrophic Thyroiditis: A more severe form with rapid thyroid cell destruction.
3. Postpartum Thyroiditis: Occurs after childbirth and may lead to temporary hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism.
4. Silent Thyroiditis: Presents as transient hyperthyroidism without symptoms.
5. Painless Thyroiditis: Similar to silent thyroiditis but without pain.
6. Riedel’s Thyroiditis: Rare and involves fibrosis of the thyroid gland.
7. Subacute Thyroiditis: Acute inflammation causing pain and tenderness in the thyroid.
8. Drug-Induced Thyroiditis: Triggered by medications.

Causes of Hashimoto’s disease

The exact cause of Hashimoto’s disease remains unclear, but several factors contribute:

• Genetics: Certain inherited genes (HLA-DR3 and HLA-DR5) increase susceptibility.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Having other autoimmune conditions (e.g., celiac disease, type 1 diabetes) raises the risk.
• Thyroid Antibodies: Elevated thyroid antibodies are common in Hashimoto’s patients.

Risk Factors of Hashimoto’s disease

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing Hashimoto’s disease:

• Sex: Women are more likely to be affected.
• Age: Although it can occur at any age, it’s most common during middle age.
• Family History: Relatives of affected individuals have a higher risk.
• Other Autoimmune Diseases: Having another autoimmune condition increases susceptibility.
• Pregnancy and Postpartum: Women during pregnancy or postpartum are at risk.

Symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease

Preventions of Hashimoto’s disease

While Hashimoto’s cannot be prevented, managing risk factors can help:

• Healthy Lifestyle: Adequate sleep, balanced diet, and stress reduction.
• Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases the risk.
• Regular Check-ups: Early detection and treatment are crucial.

Diagnosis of Hashimoto’s disease

Doctors perform the following assessments:

• Physical Examination: Checking for thyroid enlargement.
• Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs): Assessing TSH, Free T3, and T4 levels.
• Thyroid Antibody Testing: Detecting anti-thyroperoxidase antibodies.
• Ultrasound: Evaluating thyroid compression.

Treatment for Hashimoto’s disease

Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy

• Levothyroxine: The standard treatment involves daily oral administration of synthetic thyroid hormone (levothyroxine). This medication helps restore normal thyroid function and alleviates symptoms.
• Dosage Adjustment: Regular monitoring of thyroid function is essential to adjust the dosage as needed.

2. Lifestyle Modifications

• Diet: A balanced diet rich in iodine and selenium supports thyroid health.
• Stress Management: Chronic stress can exacerbate symptoms, so stress reduction techniques are beneficial.
• Avoid Goitrogens: Certain foods (e.g., cruciferous vegetables) may interfere with thyroid function.

When to seek medical attention ?

• New or Worsening Symptoms: If you experience fatigue, weight gain, depression, or other symptoms associated with hypothyroidism, consult a doctor.
• Regular Follow-ups: Regular check-ups are crucial to monitor thyroid function and adjust medication as needed.
• Emergency Situations: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or extreme fatigue.