Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

It is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks its own thyroid gland, leading to an inflammatory reaction (inflammation). By affecting the thyroid gland that regulates metabolism, it is the most common cause of thyroid deficiency (hypothyroidism).

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ℹWhat is Hashimoto's Thyroiditis?

Normally, the immune system protects the body against bacteria and viruses. In Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, however, the immune system makes an error, perceives the thyroid gland as a "foreign organ," and begins producing antibodies that attack the thyroid gland.

These antibodies are called Anti-TPO and Anti-Tg. Due to the effect of these antibodies, chronic inflammation begins in the thyroid gland. over time, the thyroid tissue is destroyed, and the gland becomes unable to sufficiently produce the T3 and T4 thyroid hormones that the body needs. This condition is called Hypothyroidism.

Common Symptoms

Weakness and Excessive Fatigue

A constant feeling of tiredness due to the slowing of metabolism.

Weight Gain

Metabolism slows significantly due to hypothyroidism; weight loss becomes difficult even with dieting.

Skin and Hair Problems

Dry skin, hair loss, and brittle nails begin to develop.

Brain Fog

Forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and even depressive mood may occur.

Cold Intolerance

Excessive sensitivity to cold weather due to significantly slowed metabolism.

Persistent Constipation

Intestinal and digestive problems arise.

Gynecological Issues in Women

Menstrual irregularity, heavy menstrual bleeding (hypermenorrhea).

Goiter

Swelling in the neck may occur due to thyroid gland enlargement.

Diagnosis Methods

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

TSH levels are high because the body continuously wants to stimulate the thyroid gland to work.

Free T3 and Free T4

Usually, the levels of these two hormones are low.

Antibody Tests

"Gold Standard" tests where high levels of Anti-TPO and Anti-Tg prove that the disease is Hashimoto's Thyroiditis of autoimmune origin.

Thyroid Ultrasonography

The thyroid tissue has a heterogeneous appearance (presence of blurred and patchy areas). This indicates inflammation of the thyroid gland.

Treatments

Hormone Replacement Therapy

hyroid deficiency is corrected by providing synthetic forms of the T4 hormone (Tefor, Levotiron, Euthyrox) that the body cannot produce. It should be taken on an empty stomach and should not be taken together with blood pressure medications.

Selenium Supplementation

In some cases, physicians may recommend selenium supplementation to help reduce antibody levels.

Nutritional Adjustment

Gluten sensitivity is common in Hashimoto's Thyroiditis; a gluten-free diet may reduce digestive complaints.

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