WHAT IS HASHIMOTO'S THYROIDITIS?
Hashimoto's thyroiditis, also known as Hashimoto's disease or chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the thyroid gland. Named after the Japanese physician who first described it, Hakaru Hashimoto, this condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the thyroid tissue.
In Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the immune system produces antibodies that target the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and impairment of its function. Over time, this can result in an underactive thyroid, known as hypothyroidism. The symptoms of Hashimoto's thyroiditis can vary widely and may include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, dry skin, muscle weakness, and depression.
The exact cause of Hashimoto's thyroiditis is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. Women are more commonly affected than men, and the condition often develops during middle age.
Diagnosis of Hashimoto's thyroiditis involves blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels and detect the presence of specific antibodies. Treatment typically involves lifelong hormone replacement therapy to restore normal thyroid hormone levels. Regular monitoring and adjustment of medication dosage may be necessary to maintain optimal thyroid function.
While Hashimoto's thyroiditis is a chronic condition, it can be effectively managed with appropriate medical care. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, individuals with Hashimoto's can lead healthy and fulfilling lives, minimizing the impact of the condition on their overall well-being.
WHO SHOULD I SEE AT ABSOLUTE HEALTH AND WELLNESS?
We have naturopaths who have many tools to help with your hashimoto's thyroiditis. From lab testing, to treatments - all of our forms of assessment and treatment are evidence based, and we often use a combination of tools to help.
HOW WE COMMONLY TREAT HASHIMOTO'S THYROIDITIS
- In Depth Testing: when indicated, special tests can be helpful. TSH, T3, T4, reverse T3, thyroid auto-antibodies and more may be used.
- Supplements (Herbs, Vitamins, Minerals): many natural substances have strong human research showing they can be effective in treating autoimmune disease and hashimoto's thyroiditis specifically
- Lifestyle and Behavior Modification: the things we do everyday such as diet, exercise and sleep have huge impacts on health, including hashimoto's
- Nutrition and Diet: the food we eat plays a role in our health, including our thyroid function
Every person is different, and hashimoto's presents differently for everyone, so we always take an individualized approach to treating your thyroid function.
