Definition:
Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease wherein the body's antibodies attack the thyroid cells. It is also known by the name chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis. It is also the most common form of hyperthyroidism in the United States.
Diagnosis:
A physician will assess the symptoms usually present in hyperthyroidism, do a neck examination, and get and analyze the history of family members. Blood tests are usually done in diagnosing the condition, as results of low thyroid hormone and high thyroid stimulating hormone is conclusive of Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Treatment:
Although there is no cure for Hashimoto's thyroidism, hormone replacement therapy can treat the hyperthyroidism that may occur due to the illness. One pill a day is adequate for keeping thyroid levels at bay. Most cases require this type of medication to be taken for the duration of one's life.
Symptoms and Signs:
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism are also present in some cases of Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Other symptoms include weight loss, weight gain, goiter, low pulse, fat pulse, fatigue, mania, depression, migraines, constipation, memory loss, reactive hypoglycemia, high cholesterol, hair loss, infertility, and panic attacks.
Causes:
Family history of thyroid disorders places an individual at risk, although the specific reason as to why the antibodies attack the thyroid cells remains unknown. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is more common in women than men.
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