{"id":1613,"date":"2018-05-03T05:47:48","date_gmt":"2018-05-03T05:47:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.io\/?p=1613"},"modified":"2021-05-17T13:17:57","modified_gmt":"2021-05-17T13:17:57","slug":"10-details-you-should-know-about-hashimotos-thyroiditis","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.io\/10-details-you-should-know-about-hashimotos-thyroiditis\/","title":{"rendered":"14 Details You Should Know About Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Your thyroid gland is situated at the front of your neck, below the larynx (Adam\u2019s apple.) This butterfly-shaped gland sits on either side of the trachea (windpipe). A healthy thyroid gland doesn\u2019t protrude from the neck, and you will struggle to feel it with your fingers.<\/p>\n

Your thyroid secretes hormones responsible for regulating metabolic rate, cardiovascular function, digestion, muscular control, mood, and cognitive development. The thyroid requires iodine from dietary sources to maintain optimal function. This vital gland is at risk of disease and infection from environmental toxins, as well as, excessive physiological and psychological stress.<\/p>\n

Over 14 million people across the United States live with an underactive thyroid condition known as Hashimoto\u2019s thyroiditis. This chronic auto-immune disease creates excessive levels of inflammation in the thyroid gland. Many people living with Hashimoto\u2019s aren\u2019t aware that they have the condition. Symptoms related to the disease are often subtle and misdiagnosed as stress from a busy lifestyle.<\/p>\n

Here are 10 details you should know about Hashimoto\u2019s thyroiditis.<\/p>\n

1. Hashimoto\u2019s Disease Explained<\/h3>\n

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis receives its name from the Japanese surgeon who first diagnosed the disease in 1912. This autoimmune disorder creates signals in the brain that rally immune cells to attack a healthy, functioning thyroid gland. This autoimmune attack creates inflammation in thyroid<\/a> tissue, resulting in Hashimoto\u2019s thyroiditis. Women are 7 times more likely to develop Hashimoto’s thyroiditis than men.<\/p>\n

The thyroid gland secrets triiodothyronine and thyroxine. The thyroid produces only 20% of the active hormone, triiodothyronine. The remaining 80% coming from thyroxine converted to triiodothyronine by organs such as the liver and kidneys. These hormones play a vital role in regulating a wide variety of metabolic functions. A dysfunctional thyroid creates a hormonal imbalance in the body that disrupts normal metabolic processes such as digestion, body temperature, and energy regulation.<\/p>\n

Hashimoto\u2019s disease prevents the thyroid from producing adequate amounts of thyroid hormone, developing a hormone deficiency that can result in hyperthyroidism. This autoimmune disorder is the most common cause of hypothyroidism.<\/p>\n

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2. Build a Relationship with Your Physician<\/h3>\n

It takes time to rehabilitate and heal the effects of Hashimoto\u2019s disease<\/a> on the thyroid and the body. You can\u2019t expect a miracle cure that will bring you back to health overnight. Therefore; it\u2019s a prudent strategy to develop a relationship with your medical health provider.<\/p>\n

Bouncing around from doctor to doctor could have adverse results on your diagnosis and treatment. It could take years for the disorder to heal, and working with one doctor has tremendous benefits that can speed your recovery.<\/p>\n

Your doctor should know your medical history and keep records of every visit to their office, including every blood test, and every course of treatment. If you leave your doctor and visit another, the new doctor won\u2019t be able to treat you as efficiently or effectively as the original physician.<\/p>\n

During your diagnosis, make sure that you divulge all of the symptoms you are experiencing. Your doctor will use all the available data combined with blood tests to reach a diagnosis of your condition.<\/p>\n

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3. Understanding the Symptoms of Hashimoto\u2019s Disease<\/h3>\n

Hashimoto\u2019s disease may lie dormant for years, presenting little to no symptoms. In fact, many people live with the autoimmune disorder, without even realizing anything is wrong with them. Environmental, physiological, and psychological triggers, such as high levels of stress, can flare up the first signs of the disease.<\/p>\n

The issue with diagnosing Hashimoto\u2019s disease is that doctors often mistake them for symptoms of other diseases and disorders. Doctors may misdiagnose Hashimoto’s as another disorder such as adrenal fatigue<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Here is a list of common symptoms of Hashimoto\u2019s disease, if you recognize one or more of them, arrange a consultation with your doctor for a diagnosis.<\/p>\n

\u2022 Fatigue.
\n\u2022 Water retention (puffy face.)
\n\u2022 Slight weight gain.
\n\u2022 Dry skin.
\n\u2022 Brittle nails.
\n\u2022 Constipation.
\n\u2022 Thinning hair.
\n\u2022 Fertility issues.
\n\u2022 Hoarse voice and sore throat.
\n\u2022 Irregular or heavy menstruation.
\n\u2022 Increased skin sensitivity to cold environments.
\n\u2022 Muscle weakness.
\n\u2022 Enlarged thyroid.
\n\u2022 Cognitive problems such as loss of memory or \u201cbrain fog.\u201d
\n\u2022 Sensitivity to medications you are currently using.<\/p>\n

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4. Health Complications Resulting from Hashimoto\u2019s Disease<\/h3>\n

Living with the symptoms of Hashimoto\u2019s disease is hard enough. However, if the disorder is left undiagnosed and untreated, it may result in further health complications. The body relies on thyroid hormones, and any shortage in production creates a hormonal imbalance.
\nHormonal imbalance<\/a> can spark a wide variety of symptoms related to another disease that may further confuse your doctor during their diagnosis. In some cases, the patient may be misdiagnosed with another condition, delaying treatment of Hashimoto\u2019s.<\/p>\n

Some of the additional health complications include:<\/p>\n

\u2022 Anemia \u2013 a chronic disease that lowers red blood cell count.
\n\u2022 Goiter \u2013 The enlargement of the thyroid gland.
\n\u2022 Myxedema \u2013 A dermatological condition.
\n\u2022 Confusion, depression, and heightened anxiety.
\n\u2022 Decreased libido and fertility problems.
\n\u2022 Lupus erythematosus \u2013 A chronic inflammatory condition.
\n\u2022 Type 1 diabetes.
\n\u2022 Rheumatoid arthritis.
\n\u2022 Adrenal fatigue.
\n\u2022 Addison\u2019s disease.<\/p>\n

Preventing these conditions from manifesting requires early diagnosis and treatment of Hashimoto\u2019s disease by your doctor. The faster you start HRT treatment, the less chance of developing other health complications.<\/p>\n

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5. Hashimoto\u2019s Risk Factors<\/h3>\n

The direct cause of Hashimoto\u2019s disease is still a mystery to medical science. However, studies show that specific risk factors<\/a> may contribute to the development of the disease. Your genetic predisposition is the most significant risk factor for Hashimoto\u2019s.<\/p>\n

If your parents or siblings have Hashimoto\u2019s, then it\u2019s more likely that you will also develop the disorder. Autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and celiac disease have a tendency to be passed down through generations.<\/p>\n

Research shows that women are 7 times more likely to develop Hashimoto\u2019s than men. Women are most at risk after pregnancy, when the body is trying to rebalance the natural hormone levels.
\nIf you have a family history of the disease, excessive iodine consumption could trigger the condition. Its recommended consuming less salty foods in your diet if you are at risk of developing Hashimoto\u2019s.<\/p>\n

Radiation exposure from x-ray machines or chemotherapy is a significant trigger for the condition. People living with cancer run the risk of developing Hashimoto\u2019s during their radiation therapy.<\/p>\n

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6. Diagnosing Hashimoto\u2019s disease<\/h3>\n

The symptoms of Hashimoto\u2019s disease may lie dormant for years before the \u201ctrigger\u201d event occurs that increases symptom intensity. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned, or a combination of them, consult with your doctor.<\/p>\n

Blood tests are necessary if your doctor suspects that Hashimoto\u2019s is the cause of your symptoms. Blood work will test your levels of the thyroid-stimulating hormone produced by the pituitary gland<\/a>. This TSH test is critical to identify the levels of T4 and T3 thyroid hormones present in the blood, as well as elevated TSH levels.<\/p>\n

High TSH indicates overstimulation of the thyroid by the pituitary gland as it tries to get the thyroid to produce more hormones. Blood work can also determine if any other antibodies are attacking the thyroid.<\/p>\n

Without blood work, It\u2019s challenging to successfully diagnose Hashimoto\u2019s disease as the cause of your symptoms. There is a high probability that your physician may attribute the symptoms to another disorder or adverse health condition.<\/p>\n

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7. Treating Hashimoto\u2019s Disease<\/h3>\n

Treatment of Hashimoto\u2019s disease requires HRT (hormone replacement therapy). Your doctor will guide you through your program, monitoring your progress until the symptoms of the disease are manageable, and your blood work shows a balanced thyroid hormone profile.<\/p>\n

HRT consists of treatment with Levothyroxine<\/a>, a synthetic hormone. This HRT medication is available in a pill form prescribed by your doctor. Levothyroxine replaces the hormone thyroxine, thereby balancing the thyroid hormone profile and reducing symptoms. This treatment only requires one tablet a day. However, it is a lifelong commitment to a medication schedule requiring careful adherence to daily administration of the thyroid drugs.<\/p>\n

Visit your doctor every 6 to 12 months for a blood work checkup. Your doctor will make the necessary adjustments to your medication after viewing the results. If you have made any errors in your medication schedule, report them to your doctor. Hormone replacement therapy requires consistent administration of thyroid medication to keep levels of Levothyroxine stable in the blood.<\/p>\n

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8. The Importance of a Medication Schedule<\/h3>\n

Upon diagnosis, your doctor will recommend a course of treatment to stabilize your hormone profile. Levothyroxine is the most common form of HRT offered by physicians as treatment and effective for around 80% of people living with Hashimoto\u2019s.<\/p>\n

However, if you don\u2019t respond to the Levothyroxine, your doctor may need to add the drugs Liothyronine and triiodothyronine. These additional hormones increase levels of T3 and should be enough to balance the hormone profile, providing relief from the symptoms.<\/p>\n

Missing your daily dose of Levothyroxine will detrimentally affect the efficiency of your hormone replacement therapy. HRT drugs usually have a half-life of around 3 days for people with hyperthyroidism, 10 days for people with hypothyroidism<\/a>, and 7 days for those individuals with normal bloodwork results.<\/p>\n

This half-life elimination time means that the drug remains active for an extended period in the body. Missing your daily dose disrupts your hormone replacement program, and fluctuating hormone levels will give rise to the reintroduction of symptoms.<\/p>\n

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9. Other Considerations with Medication<\/h3>\n

When planning your medication schedule, there are a few points to bear in mind. If you currently supplement your diet with extra calcium<\/a> or use any cholesterol medications, this may have an impact on the body\u2019s absorption of Levothyroxine.<\/p>\n

Before you begin your HRT, tell your doctor about any other supplements or medications you are currently using. Your doctor will schedule your medication and supplements to avoid absorption complications.<\/p>\n

Pregnant women diagnosed with Hashimoto\u2019s will need HRT for a successful pregnancy. Thyroid hormone imbalance will increase the risk of congenital disabilities or other birth complications such as preeclampsia.<\/p>\n

Ingesting medication places stress on the digestive system and other vital organs such as the kidneys and liver. Adjusting your diet helps to improve the absorption of the medication and prevent organ damage. Detoxifying your body once every few months will help your body cope with the effects of an extended HRT medication schedule.<\/p>\n

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10. Adjusting Nutrition Will Assist Your Recovery<\/h3>\n

Food plays an instrumental role in the management of Hashimoto\u2019s disease and treatment of the condition. After your diagnosis, evaluate your diet. Cut all refined carbohydrates<\/a> such as flour and sugar. These refined carbs increase levels of inflammation in the intestinal wall. This systemic inflammation spreads to the hormonal system, exasperating the symptoms of Hashimoto\u2019s.<\/p>\n

Replace carbs in your diet with nutrient-dense foods. Avocados, wild-caught salmon, nuts, and high-quality oils are all examples of healthy fat sources. The phytonutrients, antioxidants, and plant sterols cleanse your blood, reduce inflammation, and improve organ health.<\/p>\n

Avoid eating fibrous foods when taking your medication as they may affect your body\u2019s absorption of the HRT medication. Always stay hydrated and make sure that you drink 6 to 8 glasses of water every day. Try drinking green tea with your meals, the catechins found in this Asian tea will further detoxify your body and assist with the digestion of nutrients.<\/p>\n

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\"\"11. Hashimoto’s and Thyroid Lymphoma<\/strong><\/h3>\n

People suffering from Hashimoto’s have an increased chance of developing a rare form of cancer known as, \u201cthyroid lymphoma.<\/a>\u201d It\u2019s a rare complication of the condition that does not occur frequently. Fortunately, this type of lymphoma is treatable and curable in most cases, provided that doctors detect the presence of the disease in the early stages.<\/span><\/p>\n

Patients who experience the onset of the disease will notice swelling in the lymph nodes around the neck. If you detect any of this swelling, speak to your doctor immediately. Your doctor treats the condition using medication, and there\u2019s an excellent chance you\u2019ll be able to reverse the situation before it progresses to a critical stage.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hashimoto’s causes numerous autoimmune complications, and staying on top of your co9nditon is vital to ensure that you don\u2019t develop any life-threatening disorders. The early detection of disease and disorders significantly affects their outcome and your health. Makes sure you visit your doctor periodically for evaluation.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"12. Can You Prevent Hashimotos Disease?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

According to medical research, there\u2019s no way to prevent or reverse Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Fortunately, it highly treatable, and doctors can treat your situation using medications. The sooner you receive your diagnosis<\/a>, the sooner you can start your treatment and manage the effects of the disease. Don\u2019t wait around in the hope that things will get better, this costs valuable time, and could lead to the development of other severe complications with the disease.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hashimoto\u2019s is an autoimmune disease; this means that it\u2019s a disorder affecting the immune system, where the brain recognizes healthy cells as invading pathogens, causing the hypothalamus to signal the immune response to destroy these healthy cells. Medical science is still at a loss to explain why this disorder occurs, and preventing autoimmune disorders is impossible because doctors don\u2019t yet understand the mechanism of the disease.<\/span><\/p>\n

Since doctors can\u2019t cure patients of Hashimoto’s, the best they can do is help you manage your condition through medication and lifestyle choices.<\/span>\"\"<\/p>\n

13. Sleep and Hashimotos Disease<\/h3>\n

People with hyperthyroidism feel fatigue<\/a> throughout the day. As a result, they tend to feel exhausted and require a set sleeping time to manage their energy levels. However, in some cases, hyperthyroidism is responsible for the development of adrenal fatigue. This disorder affects the body\u2019s production of cortisol and adrenaline-like hormones. <\/span><\/p>\n

As a result of the overproduction of these hormones, the affected individual may feel exhausted, but fail to fall asleep due to elevated levels of cortisol and adrenaline that keep the body in a fight-or-flight mode. As a result, people with adrenal fatigue and Hashimoto’s often develop insomnia. When you feel tired all day, and you can\u2019t fall asleep at night, it\u2019s a recipe for disaster that leads to mental health issues, such as anxiety.<\/span><\/p>\n

Try to improve your sleep hygiene. Set a set bedtime that you adhere to each day, and wake up at the same time every morning. Take a hot bath with a few drops of essential oils and meditate for a few minutes before going to bed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"14. Hashimotos is the Leading Cause of Hypothyroidism<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Hypothyroidism<\/a> is the term for an under-active thyroid, while hyperthyroidism is the term for an over-active thyroid. In the initial stages of Hashimoto’s, the patient experiences an increase in the signals coming from the hypothalamus to produce more thyroid hormone. This situation occurs because your immune system is attacking the thyroid gland, blocking thyroid hormone.<\/span><\/p>\n

These mixed chemical signals can increase your thyroid levels in the first one or two months of developing the condition. The medical community calls this hyperthyroid stage of the disease, \u201cHashitoxicosis.\u201d \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As the disease progresses, you notice a small lump developing on your thyroid gland, also known as a \u201cgoiter.\u201d The swelling does not produce pain symptoms, but it may make it difficult to swallow. However, as Hashimoto’s advances, your thyroid starts to reduce in size, until it disappears from view. This reduction in size means that the gland is no longer working, and you\u2019ll require hormone therapy to retain normal levels of thyroid hormone.<\/span><\/p>\n

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