Hashimoto’s disease: what are the causes and symptoms?

The disease is named after Japanese doctor Hakaru Hashimoto, who discovered it in the early 20th century. It is one of the most common causes ofhypothyroidismespecially in adult women.

In most cases, the disease begins with a hypertrophy painless from thyroid and can therefore only be identified during a consultation with a doctor. In other cases, the disease may cause a feeling of ganglion in the neck, which engenders no pain on palpation. Treatment with an endocrinologist should begin as soon as possible to regulate the functioning of the gland thyroid and avoid complications.

What are the symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease?

The symptoms the most common of Hashimoto’s disease are exactly the same as those ofhypothyroidismto know :

• rapid weight gain
• Intense tiredness
• Cold and pale skin
• Constipation
• Significant chilliness
• Muscle or joint pain
• Slight swelling of the throat at the level of the thyroidcalled goiter
• hair and nails brittle

This problem is more common in women and usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 50. Initially, the doctor may only diagnose hypothyroidism, and after performing other tests, he may identify a inflammation to arrive at diagnostic of Hashimoto’s disease.

What are the causes of Hashimoto’s disease?

The causes of Hashimoto’s disease are not scientifically proven, but it could be caused by a genetic alteration. Indeed, several cases are often observed within the same family. Other studies indicate that this type of disease can be triggered after infection with a virus or bacteria, which ends up causing chronic inflammation of the thyroid.

Although there is no known cause, Hashimoto’s disease appears to be more common in people with endocrine disorders such as diabetes type 1, dysfunction of adrenal glands or others autoimmune diseases as’anemia pernicious, rheumatoid arthritis, Addison’s disease or even lupus.

How to make the diagnosis of the disease?

The best way to diagnose Hashimoto’s disease is to see an endocrinologist for a blood test to assess the amount of T3, T4 and TSH, as well as a test for detecting antibody antithyroid drugs (anti-TPO). In Hashimoto’s disease, the TSH is usually higher than average.

Some people may have thyroid antibodies but have no symptoms and are considered to have subclinical autoimmune disease. They then do not need treatment.

Are there treatments?

Treatment is only indicated when there are changes in TSH values ​​or when symptoms appear. It usually starts with hormonal drugs, such as Levothyrox, for about 6 months. Then it is necessary to return to the doctor to reassess the size of the goitre to see if you need to switch to another medicine or adjust the dose.

If the person has pain or there is rapid growth of the thyroid, the use of corticosteroids for 3 to 4 weeks may be prescribed to relieve symptoms.

Food can also have a big impact on thyroid health. It is therefore recommended to follow a healthy diet with foods rich in nutrients such as theiodinethe zinc where the selenium. For this, you can get help from a nutritionist.