Hashimoto’s disease is a condition in which your immune system attacks your thyroid, a small gland at the base of your neck below your Adam’s apple. The thyroid gland is part of your endocrine system, which produces hormones that coordinate many of your body’s functions.
What is the most common cause of thyroiditis?
Some of the agents known to cause thyroiditis are antibodies (the most common cause), drugs, radiation and organisms (viruses and bacteria). Conditions in which the body attacks itself are autoimmune diseases. Thyroiditis can be an autoimmune disease (antibody-mediated).
How do you treat Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
There is no cure for Hashimoto’s, but replacing hormones with medication can regulate hormone levels and restore your normal metabolism. The pills are available in several different strengths. The exact dose your doctor prescribes will depend on a number of factors, including: Age.
Can I reverse Hashimoto disease?
Despite its name, the most common cause of “permanent hypothyroidism”, Hashimoto’s disease (responsible for 90% of cases) can be reversed — and effectively cured. Secondary is a form of hypothyroidism caused by a malfunctioning pituitary gland, usually due to a pituitary tumor.
What is thyroiditis and what are the symptoms?
People who have thyroiditis also may have pain and swelling in the thyroid gland (in the front of the neck). What causes thyroiditis? The cause of thyroiditis depends on the type of disease you have.
What is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis and Hashimoto’s disease, is an autoimmune disease in which the thyroid gland is gradually destroyed. Early on, symptoms may not be noticed. Over time, the thyroid may enlarge, forming a painless goiter.
What is the medical term for inflammation of the thyroid gland?
Thyroiditis. Thyroiditis is a general term that refers to “inflammation of the thyroid gland”. Thyroiditis includes a group of individual disorders causing thyroidal inflammation but presenting in different ways. For example, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States.
Is thyroid disease an autoimmune disease?
It is an autoimmune disease. It occurs when your body makes antibodies that attack the cells in your thyroid. Symptoms may include an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter), tiredness, weight gain, and muscle weakness. You don’t need treatment if your thyroid hormone levels are normal.