What are the symptoms of Hashimoto's thyroiditis?

Written by Li Hui Zhi

Endocrinology

Updated on September 24, 2024

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Hashimoto's thyroiditis, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disease. Its main manifestation includes possible enlargement of the thyroid in some people. If Hashimoto's thyroiditis is accompanied by hypothyroidism, symptoms may include general fatigue, constipation, bradycardia, and edema. If these symptoms are present, it is important to visit an endocrinology specialist promptly for further thyroid function tests, thyroid ultrasonography, thyroid peroxidase antibody tests, and other examinations to confirm the diagnosis.

Other Voices

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Written by Gan Jun

Endocrinology

52sec

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What should I do about Hashimoto's thyroiditis?

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune inflammatory thyroid disease caused by the diffuse enlargement of thyroid follicular cells, and may present with transient hyperthyroidism during different clinical stages. During the period of normal thyroid function as well as the eventual phase of reduced thyroid function, appropriate anti-hyperthyroidism medications can be administered symptomatically when the patient is clinically hyperthyroid. When the patient is hypothyroid, it is necessary to timely supplement with thyroid hormones for treatment, and it is essential to dynamically monitor the individual’s thyroid hormone levels, thyroid hormone antibodies, and thyroid ultrasound to make a comprehensive assessment. It is always important to maintain a low iodine diet and avoid consuming foods that are high in iodine.

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Written by Chen Li Ping

Endocrinology

1min 2sec

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How is Hashimoto's thyroiditis treated?

After being diagnosed with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, treatment decisions should be made based on the size of the thyroid and the presence of symptoms. If the thyroid is relatively small and there are no significant compression symptoms, it is possible to follow up and observe without treatment. If the thyroid is significantly enlarged and there are compression symptoms, thyroid hormone preparations can be used to reduce thyroid swelling. If there is hypothyroidism, it is necessary to use thyroid hormone or levothyroxine for supplementary replacement therapy. In cases of Hashimoto's thyroiditis with hyperthyroidism, short-term treatment should follow the treatment for Graves' disease, using antithyroid treatments such as thioamides or thioureas. (Medications should be used under the guidance of a physician, and self-medication without guidance is strongly discouraged.)

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Written by Li Hu Chen

Imaging Center

52sec

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Ultrasonic manifestations of Hashimoto's thyroiditis

Under ultrasound observation, Hashimoto's thyroiditis generally presents as a diffuse enlargement of the thyroid, often symmetrically, although there are cases of unilateral enlargement as well. Additionally, the surface of the thyroid appears irregular and nodular. The ultrasound often reveals uneven echogenicity in the gland, sometimes with nodular changes and unclear boundaries. However, the ultrasonographic characteristics of Hashimoto's thyroiditis are not particularly specific unless it's a typical case of the disease, which can be roughly diagnosed via ultrasound. For atypical or early cases of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, diagnosis typically requires thyroid function tests, known as the "thyroid function six-item test," which remains the gold standard for diagnosing Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

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Written by Tang Zhuo

Endocrinology

55sec

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How is Hashimoto's thyroiditis caused?

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is a chronic autoimmune disease and is the most common type of thyroiditis clinically. Its etiology is primarily immunological, as Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder. Therefore, patients can detect a high concentration of anti-thyroid antibodies through blood tests, such as anti-thyroglobulin antibodies and anti-microsomal antibodies. Additionally, genetic factors are involved, with about 50% of patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis having a family history. Environmental factors, including radiation, infections, excessive dietary iodine, and selenium deficiency, can also lead to Hashimoto's thyroiditis. In recent years, the incidence of Hashimoto's thyroiditis has notably increased.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi

Endocrinology

47sec

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Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disease. Some patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis have normal thyroid function and generally do not require treatment, but it is recommended to regularly review thyroid function and have thyroid ultrasonography. Some patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may also suffer from hypothyroidism, which can manifest clinically as fatigue, constipation, and edema. If these symptoms are present, it is advisable to visit an endocrinology specialist promptly, complete thyroid function tests, and use thyroid hormone supplements under the guidance of a doctor.