Hashimoto’s Disease - Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Introduction

Hashimoto’s disease, an auto-immune disorder, can lead to hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid. If an individual has this medical condition, their immune system attacks thyroid, a gland present in the front of the neck that is essential for regulating metabolism, growth and development.

Symptoms

Due to Hashimoto’s disease, a person’s thyroid may develop hypothyroidism. This is because it can lead to an increase in the release of the thyroid hormone, forming a lump known as goitre. As this disease progresses, an individual exhibits the symptoms of hypothyroidism that includes:

Fatigue

Weight gain

Joint and muscle pain

Constipation

Dry Skin

Thinning hair

Fertility problems

Slow heart rate

Irregular menstrual cycle

Diagnosis

A doctor will first examine the medical history of a person and take a physical examination. Doctors generally prescribe blood tests like thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid antibodies etc. A person can easily get a test for thyroid stimulating hormone, antibodies, etc., at affordable prices from a reputed diagnostic centre. Since this disease can cause heart-related issues and complications during pregnancy, it is advised to get full-body check-ups.

Treatment

People with Hashimoto’s disease are generally prescribed medication for treating hyperthyroidism. Many doctors also recommend regular check-ups to keep an eye on the hormone levels. This helps them observe whether the medicines are being affective or not.

Conclusion

Hashimoto’s disease is more common in women than in men. Moreover, this disease can also present itself due to radiation exposure and excessive intake of iodine. People with family history of Hashimoto’s disease should get regular TSH tests from a trusted pathology lab. Certain dietary restrictions should be maintained in order to keep the hormone levels in check.