Understanding Hashimoto Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Hashimoto disease – also known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis – is an autoimmune disorder that causes chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland. This condition results in an underactive thyroid gland, leading to a range of symptoms that can severely affect a person’s quality of life. Here’s what you need to know about Hashimoto disease, its symptoms, causes, and treatment.
Introduction:
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis affects more women than men aged 60 and above, but can also occur in children and men of all ages. This disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to be the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The immune system, which is supposed to protect the body from disease, mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and eventually, the destruction of thyroid tissue.
Symptoms:
Several symptoms can present themselves when a person has Hashimoto disease. These symptoms include:
Fatigue
Hashimoto disease can cause extreme fatigue, which can interfere with regular activities. This can be because the underactive thyroid is not producing enough energy for the body’s needs.
Weight gain
Weight gain is a common symptom of Hashimoto disease. An underactive thyroid gland causes a slower metabolism, which can lead to more calories being stored as fat.
Hair loss
Hair loss is another symptom commonly associated with Hashimoto disease. This is due to the effect of thyroid hormones on hair growth and maintenance.
Muscle weakness and joint pain
Muscle weakness and joint pain can make it difficult to perform tasks that require the use of muscles, and can also cause discomfort.
Constipation
Hashimoto disease can affect the digestive system by slowing it down, leading to constipation. This occurs because the underactive thyroid gland produces less hormone that regulates the digestive system.
Other symptoms of Hashimoto disease include increased sensitivity to cold, dry skin, depression, and thinning eyebrows.
Causes:
The exact cause of Hashimoto disease is not yet known, but several factors can likely contribute to this condition. These include:
Genetics
Hashimoto disease tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
Environmental factors
Exposure to environmental toxins, infections, or stress can trigger the immune system’s response, leading to Hashimoto disease.
Gender and age
Hashimoto disease affects women more frequently than men, and older adults are more at risk of developing the condition.
Treatment:
Treatment approaches for Hashimoto disease typically focus on slowing the disease’s progression and maintaining a stable thyroid hormone level. Hormone replacement therapy, medication prescription, surgery, and dietary changes may be necessary depending on the severity of the condition.
Hormone replacement therapy
Levothyroxine is a hormone replacement therapy drug that replaces the hormone not produced by the thyroid gland. This medication can alleviate the symptoms associated with Hashimoto disease.
Medication
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve joint pain associated with Hashimoto disease. Corticosteroids may be prescribed for more advanced cases.
Surgery
Surgery is a last resort when thyroid nodules or cancer develop. Full or partial thyroid gland removal may be required.
Dietary changes
Avoiding goitrogens in raw cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli and cauliflower, may reduce inflammation of the thyroid gland. Additionally, a diet rich in vitamin D, selenium, and zinc may support thyroid function.
Conclusion:
Hashimoto disease is a complex autoimmune disorder caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Although the exact cause of this disease is not yet known, available treatment options can relieve symptoms and slow its progression. If you or someone you know presents the symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately to avoid severe complications.
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