Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. It is not possible to completely prevent the development of this disease, as the underlying causes are usually based on congenital disorders in the immune system. It is still not fully understood why the body attacks thyroid cells by producing antibodies against them. However, it is thought that family history plays an important role in the development of this disease. In addition, certain risk factors increase the incidence of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
What is Hashimoto?
Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune disorder in which thyroid hormones are underproduced. Also known as lymphocytic thyroiditis, this disease was first described in 1912 by Japanese scientist Akira Hashimoto and is therefore named after him. Hashimoto’s disease may initially present with symptoms of hyperthyroidism, but over time it can lead to a deficiency of thyroid hormones, leading to thyroid insufficiency.
In this disease, the immune system targets the thyroid gland and produces anti-TPO and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies. These antibodies bind to thyroid cells, destroying them and causing inflammation. As a result, cell destruction occurs in the thyroid gland and hormone production gradually decreases.
Is Hashimoto a dangerous disease?
If Hashimoto’s disease is not treated, it can cause serious health problems. The most common of these health problems is goiter, which is quite common in our country.
What are the symptoms of Hashimoto?
One of the earliest symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease is usually an enlargement of the thyroid gland, or goiter. Hashimoto’s symptoms include:
- Weight gain
- Difficulty concentrating
- Presence of goiter
- Dry skin
- Mood swings, depression and irritability
- Hair loss
- Getting cold easily
- Swelling under the eyes and on the face
- Fatigue
- Muscle cramps
- Voice changes
- Constipation
- Menstrual irregularities
- Anorexia
- Slowness in speech and forgetfulness
- Decreased pulse rate
How to understand if you have Hashimoto?
Hashimoto’s disease can be diagnosed by blood tests for thyroid and antibody levels and by ultrasonography.
How is Hashimoto treated?
In the treatment of Hashimoto, treatments are applied to increase thyroid hormones to normal levels and patients are checked at regular intervals to monitor their hormone levels. Treatment is usually lifelong and patients with hormone deficiency are given synthetic thyroid hormone, usually levothyroxine, daily.
Although there is no definitive diet to completely prevent or treat Hashimoto’s disease, some changes to the Hashimoto diet can help manage the disease. For this reason, it is recommended that individuals with Hashimoto’s disease eliminate gluten-containing grains, legumes, dairy products, and sugar from their diet.