Thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid gland, which can lead to a variety of thyroid-related symptoms and complications. This article explains thyroiditis' causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
There are several causes of thyroiditis, including:
Thyroiditis caused by the immune system, also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is the most common form of thyroiditis.
Thyroid inflammation can be caused by viral infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus or other respiratory viruses.
Though less common, bacterial infections can also cause thyroiditis, especially in cases of acute infectious thyroiditis.
Thyroiditis can be caused by radiation exposure to the head, neck, or chest, particularly during childhood.
Some medications, such as interferon-alpha or interleukin-2 used in the treatment of cancer or hepatitis, can cause thyroid inflammation.
Depending on the type and severity of inflammation, thyroiditis can cause the following symptoms:
Lethargy and low energy levels are often associated with fatigue.
Unexpected weight gain or loss, despite no significant changes in diet or exercise.
Pain, tenderness, or swelling in the front of the neck, particularly when palpating or swallowing.
Thyroid hormone fluctuations can cause mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or depression.
Changes in hair texture, thickness, or loss, particularly dryness or brittleness.
Changes in the skin: Dry, pale, or coarse skin, often accompanied by itching or sensitivity to temperature changes.
A change in menstrual patterns, such as heavier or lighter periods, irregular cycles, or amenorrhea (absence of menstruation).
Feeling cold even in warm environments due to cold intolerance.
Chronic thyroiditis may cause swelling or enlargement of the thyroid gland, known as a goiter.
Thyroiditis is diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. These procedures may include:
A healthcare provider will perform a thorough physical examination, including palpating the thyroid gland to check for enlargement, tenderness, or nodules.
Lab tests to assess thyroid function and detect signs of thyroid autoimmune or infectious thyroiditis include thyroid hormone levels (e.g., TSH, T3, T4), thyroid autoantibodies (e.g., anti-thyroid peroxidase [TPO] antibodies), and markers of inflammation (e.g., C-reactive protein [CRP]).
Using ultrasound imaging of the thyroid gland, one can visualize its size, shape, and characteristics, as well as detect inflammation and structural abnormalities.
During fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNA), a small tissue sample is taken from the thyroid gland using a thin needle and examined under a microscope in order to rule out thyroid cancer.
Treatment options for thyroiditis depend on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms.
The condition may resolve spontaneously over time in cases of mild or subclinical thyroiditis if observed with regular thyroid function monitoring.
A thyroid hormone replacement therapy with levothyroxine may be prescribed to treat hypothyroidism caused by autoimmune thyroiditis.
Acute infectious thyroiditis may be treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin.
To suppress inflammation and alleviate symptoms, corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are prescribed in cases of severe or symptomatic thyroiditis.
In cases of viral or bacterial thyroiditis, antiviral or antibiotic medications may be prescribed to treat the underlying infection.
A radioactive iodine treatment may be used to reduce thyroid hormone production and treat hyperthyroidism associated with autoimmune thyroiditis or Graves' disease.
It may not always be possible to prevent thyroiditis, but individuals can reduce the risk of complications and promote thyroid health by taking the following steps:
The practice of stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress levels and boost immunity.
Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of autoimmune thyroiditis and other thyroid-related problems.
A healthy lifestyle includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Radiation-induced thyroiditis can be reduced by minimizing exposure to radiation, especially during medical procedures or environmental exposures.
