Thyroiditis is a medical condition that occurs when the thyroid gland—an important gland located at the front of the neck—becomes inflamed. The thyroid plays a critical role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and overall hormonal balance. When inflammation disrupts its normal function, a variety of symptoms may appear.
What Is Thyroiditis?
Thyroiditis is not a single disorder but rather a group of conditions that cause thyroid inflammation. It can result from autoimmune diseases, infections, certain medications, or even after pregnancy. Depending on the type, thyroiditis can cause either an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), or sometimes both in sequence.
Common types include:
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (autoimmune, leading to hypothyroidism)
- Subacute thyroiditis (often post-viral, causing temporary hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism)
- Postpartum thyroiditis (occurring after childbirth)
- Drug-induced thyroiditis (linked to certain medications such as amiodarone or interferon)
Symptoms of Thyroiditis
The symptoms of thyroiditis vary depending on whether the thyroid is overactive, underactive, or fluctuates between the two.
Hyperthyroid Phase Symptoms (overactive thyroid):
- Unexplained weight loss
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Increased sweating
- Anxiety, irritability, or nervousness
- Tremors (shaking hands or fingers)
- Heat intolerance
- Difficulty sleeping
Hypothyroid Phase Symptoms (underactive thyroid):
- Fatigue and sluggishness
- Unexplained weight gain
- Sensitivity to cold
- Constipation
- Dry skin and hair loss
- Puffy face or swelling in the neck
- Depression or low mood
- Slow heart rate
General Symptoms of Thyroid Inflammation:
- Neck pain or tenderness (more common in subacute thyroiditis)
- Swelling in the neck (goiter)
- Difficulty swallowing or a sense of fullness in the throat
Treatment Options for Thyroiditis
Treatment depends on the type and phase of thyroiditis, as well as the severity of symptoms.
- Medications
- Anti-thyroid drugs or beta-blockers may be prescribed during the hyperthyroid phase to reduce symptoms like palpitations and anxiety.
- Thyroid hormone replacement therapy (levothyroxine) is commonly used if the thyroid becomes underactive.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice persistent fatigue, unexplained weight changes, mood shifts, or swelling in your neck, it’s important to seek medical evaluation. Early detection and management of thyroiditis can prevent long-term thyroid damage and improve quality of life.
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