Hashimoto’s disease is also known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis or autoimmune thyroiditis.
Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune condition that can lead to hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid. In rare cases, it may also result in hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid.
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of your neck.
In individuals with Hashimoto’s disease:
How common is Hashimoto’s disease? In india
Hashimoto's disease is a significant health concern in India, particularly due to the increasing prevalence of thyroid disorders in recent years.
A notable study involving 6,283 schoolgirls from different regions of India found that 5.6% had Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, as confirmed by fine-needle aspiration cytology. Another comprehensive review estimated that approximately 16.7% of adults in India possess anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies, indicative of autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Factors like iodine deficiency, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors contribute to the rising incidence of autoimmune thyroid diseases, including Hashimoto's disease.
Who is at greater risk of developing Hashimoto’s disease?
Hashimoto’s disease is more common in women, occurring 4 to 10 times more frequently than in men. While it can affect teens and young women, it is most often diagnosed in women between the ages of 30 and 50. The risk of developing Hashimoto’s disease is higher if there is a family history of the condition.
Additionally, individuals with other autoimmune disorders are more likely to develop Hashimoto’s disease. These conditions include:
What are the potential complications of Hashimoto’s disease?
Hashimoto's disease often leads to hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones. If left untreated, hypothyroidism can cause a range of serious health issues, such as:
- Elevated cholesterol levels
- Increased risk of heart disease and heart failure
- High blood pressure
- Myxedema, a rare and severe form of hypothyroidism that can significantly slow down the body’s functions and potentially be life-threatening
What symptoms are associated with Hashimoto's disease?
In the early stages, many people with Hashimoto’s disease may not experience any noticeable symptoms. As the condition progresses, symptoms of hypothyroidism can develop. Some common signs of hypothyroidism include:
Hashimoto’s disease gradually damages the thyroid, often leading to hypothyroidism. In rare cases, during the early stages, thyroid damage may cause an excess release of thyroid hormone, resulting in symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
The thyroid gland may also enlarge, creating a visible swelling in the front of the neck, known as a goiter. While a goiter is generally not painful, it can create a sensation of fullness in the throat. Over time, as the thyroid continues to be damaged, the goiter may shrink and disappear after many years or decades.
What leads to the development of Hashimoto’s disease?
The exact cause of Hashimoto’s disease remains unclear, but a family history of thyroid problems is often present. Several factors may contribute to the development of the condition, including:
Hypothyroidism, which is commonly linked to Hashimoto’s disease, can also be triggered by:
How do healthcare providers diagnose Hashimoto’s disease?
Doctors diagnose Hashimoto’s disease through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. The process typically involves:
In most cases, no further testing is needed to confirm Hashimoto’s disease. However, if your doctor suspects the condition but doesn’t detect antithyroid antibodies in your blood, they may recommend an ultrasound of the thyroid. This imaging can help assess the size of the thyroid and identify characteristics associated with Hashimoto’s disease. It can also rule out other causes of thyroid enlargement, such as thyroid nodules.
How do doctors manage Hashimoto’s disease?
The primary goal of treating Hashimoto's disease is to manage hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones. This is typically achieved through hormone replacement therapy.
Here's how doctors manage Hashimoto's disease:
It's important to work closely with your doctor to develop a personalized treatment plan. By following your doctor's recommendations and maintaining regular check-ups, you can effectively manage Hashimoto's disease and improve your overall quality of life.