About this disease
What it concerns
This type of thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease. The body forms antibodies against elements of the thyroid for reasons that are not yet clear. This leads to chronic inflammation, which subsequently causes hypothyroidism.
Symptoms and consequences
Problems with the neck are very mild or non-existent in Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Those affected often suffer from non-specific symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, fatigue, exhaustion, sleep disturbances, muscle and joint complaints, dizziness or hair loss. Often, Hashimoto's thyroiditis first becomes noticeable through the consequences of the loss of thyroid hormone function and the symptoms of hypothyroidism.
How we can help you
Examination and diagnosis
In the endocrinology consultation, various antibody values are determined in the blood. Ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland often reveals a typical picture. Depending on the stage of inflammation, the thyroid gland may be enlarged, reduced in size or even barely visible. The scintigraphic examination shows a reduced contrast uptake only when the thyroid function is reduced.
Treatment
The cause of Hashimoto's thyroiditis cannot be treated. The hypothyroidism is treated with the administration of thyroid hormones in tablet form.