Hashimoto's - how does it manifest itself?
In some cases, Hashimoto’s disease is very mild or even asymptomatic for a long time. However, the disease has a progressive course, is chronic, and sooner or later will make itself known. Specialists point out several specific symptoms that may suggest that it is worthwhile to do tests for Hashimoto’s.
Symptoms include weight gain, frequent weakness, feelings of fatigue and lower tolerance to exercise. Patients affected by Hashimoto’s also complain of memory problems, less ability to concentrate and freezing, even when the ambient temperature does not indicate it. Women with Hashimoto’s also face menstrual disorders, while men face a weakened libido.
With Hashimoto’s, symptoms can be of various dimensions. Changes can be seen on the face and skin (the complexion begins to look dry and cold, subcutaneous swelling becomes visible). Thyroiditis also manifests itself with neurological symptoms (such as nerve damage), mental symptoms (such as emotional instability). Symptoms develop gradually, slowly, usually over several years.
Hashimoto's diagnosis
Hashimoto’s is an autoimmune disease that is genetic. The first suspicion of Hashimoto’s can be verified by performing hormone tests to determine hypothyroidism. Your family doctor can refer you for such testing. Just whether the finding of thyroid problems will mean Hashimoto’s? The diagnosis must be deepened.
What is important in the diagnosis of Hashimoto’s – tests, such as the determination of serum antithyroid antibodies. Antithyroperoxidase antibodies or antithyroglobulin antibodies must be taken under the magnifying glass. Characteristic of Hashimoto’s is an increased concentration of anti-TPO.
How else can Hashimoto’s be diagnosed? An ultrasound of the thyroid will show whether the gland is enlarged or reduced.
In some cases, the doctor orders the patient to undergo a fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid.
Hashimoto's - treatment
The process of dealing with this disease is not simple. After all, it is Hashimoto’s – the treatment in this case is not clear-cut. There is still no effective method to combat chronic lymphocytic inflammation. Hashimoto’s therapy is based on the treatment of hypothyroidism. Patients take the missing thyroid hormones – levothyroxine. They are required to treat themselves in this way for life. This allows the body to restore its ability to function normally. Thyroiditis combined with other diseases may require treatment in the hospital.
