Is the ESR high in Hashimoto's thyroiditis?

Written by Chen Xie

Endocrinology

Updated on September 02, 2024

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Hashimoto's thyroiditis belongs to autoimmune thyroiditis, which is caused by the presence of autoantibodies that destroy the thyroid follicular cells, leading to the failure of thyroid cells. For patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) generally does not increase. However, if a patient experiences neck discomfort or sore throat, and the ESR increases, even accompanied by fever, it is necessary to rule out whether subacute thyroiditis is present. If the patient has subacute thyroiditis, it indicates that a viral infection has caused the destruction of the thyroid cells, which might increase the ESR.

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Written by Zhao Xin Lan

Endocrinology

56sec

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Hashimoto's thyroiditis symptoms

In the early stages, when the autoimmune destruction from Hashimoto's thyroiditis is not particularly severe and does not cause either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, there may be no symptoms at all. As the immune response intensifies and leads to increased destruction of thyroid cells, transient thyrotoxicosis can occur, resulting in symptoms such as heat intolerance, trembling hands, and palpitations. The duration of these symptoms is related to the severity of the destruction. Generally, symptomatic relief can be achieved by administering beta-blockers. In the later stages, when the destruction of thyroid function in Hashimoto's is exacerbated, leading to hypothyroidism, symptoms such as cold intolerance, fatigue, and hair loss may occur. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Chen Xie

Endocrinology

52sec

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Is the ESR high in Hashimoto's thyroiditis?

Hashimoto's thyroiditis belongs to autoimmune thyroiditis, which is caused by the presence of autoantibodies that destroy the thyroid follicular cells, leading to the failure of thyroid cells. For patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) generally does not increase. However, if a patient experiences neck discomfort or sore throat, and the ESR increases, even accompanied by fever, it is necessary to rule out whether subacute thyroiditis is present. If the patient has subacute thyroiditis, it indicates that a viral infection has caused the destruction of the thyroid cells, which might increase the ESR.

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Written by Luo Juan

Endocrinology

49sec

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Can people with Hashimoto's thyroiditis eat lamb?

Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis cannot eat mutton, so it is permissible to eat mutton. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is a common autoimmune thyroid disease and the primary cause of hypothyroidism. Its onset is generally closely related to genetic factors, abnormal iodine metabolism, and immune function abnormalities. The pathological characteristics are mainly marked by significant infiltration of lymphocytes and plasma cells in the thyroid, as well as fibrosis of thyroid tissues. In terms of diet, patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis need to strictly control their iodine intake.

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Written by Chen Xie

Endocrinology

1min 19sec

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Can Hashimoto's thyroiditis patients eat iodized salt?

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune thyroid disease, which can manifest in three thyroid function states: hyperthyroidism, euthyroidism, and hypothyroidism. The dietary requirements for iodized salt vary depending on the thyroid state. When Hashimoto's thyroiditis coexists with hyperthyroidism, an iodine-restricted diet is necessary. When thyroid function is normal in Hashimoto's thyroiditis, iodine intake should still be limited, as excessive iodine can cause a thyroiditis that changes from euthyroid to dysfunctional. Therefore, iodized salt can be consumed, but the intake of iodine-rich foods such as kelp, seaweed, and seafood should be restricted. When Hashimoto's thyroiditis coincides with hypothyroidism, iodized salt can be consumed without specific restrictions; both iodized and non-iodized salt are acceptable. This is because, at this stage, thyroid function primarily requires hormone replacement therapy, so the consumption of iodized salt has no effect.

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Written by Tang Zhuo

Endocrinology

1min 26sec

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What to do with Hashimoto's thyroiditis?

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is the most common clinical type of thyroiditis, with over 90% occurring in females. It is also the major cause of primary hypothyroidism. The onset of Hashimoto's thyroiditis is insidious and progresses slowly. Early clinical manifestations are often atypical. Therefore, the treatment of Hashimoto's thyroiditis should be tailored to different circumstances. If a patient with Hashimoto's thyroiditis has normal thyroid function, then no special treatment is needed, only regular follow-up is required. If the patient develops hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone replacement therapy should be administered using either thyroxine tablets or levothyroxine tablets until the maintenance dose is reached, to improve clinical symptoms and normalize thyroid function. Another category includes patients with Hashimoto's hyperthyroidism, who generally do not require treatment as they may go through phases of hyperthyroidism, normal thyroid function, and hypothyroidism. Transient hyperthyroidism can be managed symptomatically with β-blockers. For cases highly suspected of concurrent Hashimoto's thyroiditis with thyroid cancer or lymphoma, surgical treatment can be considered.