Autoimmune thyroiditis

A disorder that happens when the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

Description

A disorder that happens when the immune system attacks the thyroid — a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck just below the Adam's apple.

Overview

Autoimmune thyroiditis also is called Hashimoto's disease. In this disorder, the immune system causes the death of cells that make hormones in the thyroid. This leads to a drop in the amount of hormones the thyroid can make — a condition called hypothyroidism. Anyone can develop autoimmune thyroiditis, but it's most common among middle-aged women.

Symptoms

Autoimmune thyroiditis slowly gets worse over time. Symptoms may not be noticeable. Eventually, the drop in thyroid hormone triggers a variety of symptoms. They may include fatigue; extra sensitivity to cold; dry skin; constipation; muscle weakness; thyroid swelling; depression; and muscle and joint aches, tenderness and stiffness, among others.

Treatments

Most people with autoimmune thyroiditis take medicine to treat hypothyroidism. If hypothyroidism is mild, though, no treatment may be needed. In that case, regular testing to monitor thyroid hormone levels usually is recommended.