Understanding Thyroiditis: Managing a Common Disease

A common thyroid disease, thyroiditis, can cause various symptoms such as weight gain or loss, decreased ability to concentrate, and hair loss. Dr. Nguyen Thi Thanh Truc from Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City explains that the disease can lead to overproduction or underproduction of thyroid hormones.

Thyroiditis can occur in anyone but is more prevalent in postpartum women, especially those aged 30-50. The disease has different stages with varying symptoms. In the transient hyperthyroidism stage, the thyroid gland becomes inflamed and releases too much hormone, causing symptoms like rapid heart rate, weight loss, and irritability.

The normal phase of thyroiditis occurs when hormone levels return to normal after hyperthyroidism. Euthyroidism may follow where the thyroid gland returns to a recovery state with no symptoms. However, if the thyroid gland is depleted of hormones during this phase, hypothyroidism may occur leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and muscle weakness.

There are different forms of thyroiditis such as acute thyroiditis, subacute thyroiditis, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Treatment varies based on the type and stage of the disease. Patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may require lifelong supplements of synthetic hormones to maintain healthy functioning of their bodies. Regular follow-up examinations are essential to monitor the condition and adjust medication as needed.

Dr. Truc emphasizes that early examination and treatment are crucial for unusual symptoms to prevent complications such as severe heart problems or even death in extreme cases.

Regular health check-ups at least once a year are recommended for people who suspect they might be suffering from any form of thyroid disorder.

It is vital not to self-medicate or ignore any prescribed treatment plan by a healthcare professional because it could lead to dangerous health complications that could permanently damage your body’s functioning system.

In conclusion, it’s important to get regular health check-ups done every year and seek medical attention immediately if you notice any unusual symptoms related to your thyroids function so that we can diagnose it early on before it leads to severe complications later on.