Hashimoto’s Disease

Contact Doctor:
https://www.patientsmedical.com/physicians/rashmi-gulati-md-medical-director.aspx

Treatments:
https://www.patientsmedical.com/treatments/ivtherapy.aspx
https://www.patientsmedical.com/testing/thyroid-testing.aspx

• What is Hashimoto’s Disease?
• What causes Hashimoto’s Disease?
• What are Hashimoto’s Disease symptoms?
• How is Hashimoto’s Disease diagnosed?
• What triggers Hashimoto’s disease?
• How serious is Hashimoto’s disease?
• What does Hashimoto’s disease do to your body?
• What is the difference between Hashimoto’s disease and hypothyroidism?
• Can you have Hashimoto’s disease without a thyroid?
• What is the best treatment for Hashimoto’s disease?
• Can Hashimoto’s disease be reversed?

Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmunedisorder of the thyroid glands. The disease is caused by the immune systemattacking the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage to the gland.Symptoms of Hashimoto's disease include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance,and muscle weakness. The condition can be diagnosed with blood tests andtreated with hormone replacement therapy. If left untreated, it can lead to anenlarged thyroid gland (goiter) and even thyroid cancer.

Hashimoto's Disease definition

Hashimoto's disease, also known aschronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder in which the body'simmune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage tothe gland. This can cause the thyroid gland to produce too little thyroidhormone (hypothyroidism), leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain,cold intolerance, and muscle weakness.

Hashimoto's Disease causes

Hashimoto's disease is believedto be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is more common inpeople who have a family history of autoimmune disorders, and it is more commonin women than in men.

Someother potential causes or risk factors for Hashimoto's disease include:

• Having another autoimmune disorder, such as type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Being exposed to radiation
• Having a history of viral or bacterial infections
• Having a low selenium diet
• Being exposed to certain chemicals or toxins
• Pregnancy, as it causes hormonal changes that may trigger the autoimmune response.

Itis important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does notnecessarily mean that a person will develop Hashimoto's disease.

Hashimoto's Disease symptoms

The symptoms of Hashimoto's disease,a type of thyroiditis, can vary but may include fatigue, weight gain,sensitivity to cold, muscle weakness, joint and muscle pain, constipation, dryskin, hair loss, depression, and an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter). Somepeople with the condition may also experience heavy or irregular menstrualperiods, or difficulty getting pregnant. It is important to note that somepeople with Hashimoto's may not have any symptoms at all, and the condition isoften diagnosed during routine blood tests. If you suspect you may haveHashimoto's disease, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Hashimoto's Disease testing

Hashimoto's disease is usuallydiagnosed through a combination of blood tests, physical examination, andsometimes imaging tests. The most common blood tests used to diagnoseHashimoto's disease include:

• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test: This test measures the level of TSH in your blood. People with Hashimoto's disease typically have an elevated level of TSH and a low level of thyroid hormones, such as T4 and T3.
• TRH Test
• Thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies test: This test measures the level of TPO antibodies in your blood. People with Hashimoto's disease typically have elevated levels of these antibodies.
• Thyroglobulin antibodies test: This test measures the level of thyroglobulin antibodies in your blood. People with Hashimoto's disease typically have elevated levels of these antibodies.

Physicalexamination, such as feeling the thyroid gland to see if it is enlarged, andimaging tests such as Ultrasound of thyroid can also aid in diagnosis.
It'simportant to note that Hashimoto's disease can sometimes be difficult todiagnose, as the symptoms can be like other conditions and the blood testresults may not always be definitive. If you suspect you may have Hashimoto's Disease, it's important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Hashimoto's Disease diagnosis

A diagnosis of Hashimoto's diseaseis typically made based on a combination of factors including symptoms,physical examination, and lab test results. The most common blood tests used todiagnose Hashimoto's disease include:

• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test: This test measures the level of TSH in the blood. People with Hashimoto's disease typically have an elevated level of TSH and a low level of thyroid hormones, such as T4 and T3.
• Thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies test: This test measures the level of TPO antibodies in the blood. People with Hashimoto's disease typically have elevated levels of these antibodies.
• Thyroglobulin antibodies test: This test measures the level of thyroglobulin antibodies in the blood. People with Hashimoto's disease typically have elevated levels of these antibodies.

Physicalexamination, such as feeling the thyroid gland to see if it is enlarged, andimaging tests such as Ultrasound of thyroid can also aid in diagnosis. A doctormay also evaluate the patient's medical history, family history and symptoms toarrive at a diagnosis.
It'simportant to note that Hashimoto's disease can sometimes be difficult todiagnose, as the symptoms can be like other conditions, and the blood testresults may not always be definitive. If you have symptoms that suggestHashimoto's disease, it's important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis andtreatment.

Hashimoto's Disease treatments

The primary treatment forHashimoto's disease is hormone replacement therapy, which replaces the thyroidhormone that your body is not producing enough of. The most generic form ofhormone replacement therapy is levothyroxine, a synthetic form of the thyroidhormone T4. This medication is taken daily, and the dosage is adjusted based onyour blood test results and symptoms.

Othertreatments for Hashimoto's disease can include:

• Treating underlying autoimmune disorder or other causes if any.
• Vitamin and mineral supplements, such as selenium, iron, and vitamin D, help support the health of the thyroid gland.
• Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, to help manage symptoms and support overall health.

Itis important to keep in mind that treatment for Hashimoto's disease may need tobe adjusted over time based on changes in your symptoms and lab test results.Regular follow-up visits with your doctor are important to monitor yourcondition and adjust your treatment as needed.
Itis also important to note that while Hashimoto's disease is a chroniccondition, with proper treatment and management, most people with the conditioncan lead healthy and normal lives.

Complicationsof Hashimoto's Disease

Hashimoto's disease, if not treatedproperly, can lead to several complications, including:

• Hypothyroidism: Hashimoto's disease can cause the thyroid gland to produce less and less thyroid hormone, leading to hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, and dry skin.
• Goiter: Hashimoto's disease can cause the thyroid gland to become enlarged; a condition called goiter. This can cause difficulty swallowing or breathing and a visible enlargement of the neck.
• Pregnancy Complications: Women with Hashimoto's disease are at increased risk for pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage, preterm birth, and postpartum thyroiditis.
• Other autoimmune disorders: Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune disorder, and people with this condition are at increased risk for other autoimmune disorders such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and vitiligo.
• Myxedema coma: If hypothyroidism is severe, it may cause myxedema coma, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's metabolism slows down significantly. Symptoms may include decreased consciousness, low body temperature, and low blood pressure.

It'simportant to note that most of these complications can be prevented or treatedwith proper management of Hashimoto's disease, including regular monitoring ofsymptoms and lab test results, and adjusting treatment as needed. If you haveHashimoto's disease, it's important to work closely with your doctor to manageyour condition and prevent complications.

Graves'disease vs Hashimoto's

Graves' disease and Hashimoto's Disease are both autoimmune disorders that affect the thyroid gland, but theyhave some important differences.
Graves'disease, also known as hyperthyroidism, is an autoimmune disorder that causesthe thyroid gland to produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormone, leading tosymptoms such as rapid heartbeat, weight loss, nervousness and anxiety, andheat intolerance. It can also cause the eyes to bulge (called Graves' ophthalmopathy)and skin changes on the shins (called Graves' dermopathy).

Hashimoto's Disease, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroidgland to become inflamed and damaged, leading to a decrease in thyroid hormoneproduction and symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold,muscle weakness, joint and muscle pain, constipation, dry skin, hair loss,depression, and an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter).

Bothconditions are autoimmune disorders, but they have different symptoms,different lab results and different treatment approaches. While Graves' diseaseis treated with medications to reduce thyroid hormone production and/orradioactive iodine or surgery, Hashimoto's disease is treated with hormonereplacement therapy to replace the thyroid hormone that the body is notproducing enough of.

It'simportant to note that both conditions can be diagnosed by a combination ofblood tests, physical examination, and sometimes imaging tests, and it'simportant to see a doctor if you suspect you may have either condition for aproper diagnosis and treatment.

Hashimoto's Disease diet

There is no specific diet that isrecommended for people with Hashimoto's disease but eating a healthy andbalanced diet can help manage symptoms and support overall health. Some generaldietary recommendations for people with Hashimoto's disease include:

• Avoiding processed foods, added sugars, and saturated fats.
• Getting enough iodine, which is important for thyroid function. Good food sources of iodine include seafood, dairy products, and iodized salt.
• Getting enough selenium, which is important for thyroid function and can help lower levels of thyroid antibodies. Good food sources of selenium include Brazil nuts, seafood, and meat.
• Eating enough iron and vitamin D, as deficiency in these can lead to fatigue and weakness.

Itis also important to note that if you are taking thyroid hormone replacementtherapy, it is important to take the medication on an empty stomach and avoidfood or supplements that contain Calcium and Iron for at least an hour.
It'simportant to remember that everyone's dietary needs are different, and it'simportant to work with a healthcare professional to create a personalizeddietary plan that is right for you.
It'salso worth noting that certain diets such as gluten-free, veganism, low-carb,etc. have not been proven to be beneficial specifically for Hashimoto's Disease. However, if you have any other condition that may be aggravated bycertain food groups, it's best to consult a healthcare professional beforemaking any dietary changes.

Hashimoto's Disease medication

The primary medication used to treatHashimoto's disease is hormone replacement therapy, which replaces the thyroidhormone that the body is not producing enough of. The most prescribedmedication is levothyroxine, which is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormoneT4. This medication is taken daily, and the dosage is adjusted based on bloodtest results and symptoms.

Othermedications that can be used to treat Hashimoto's disease include:

• Liothyronine: This medication is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone T3. It is usually used in combination with levothyroxine to help manage symptoms.
• Calcium carbonate: This medication can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and improve bone health in people with Hashimoto's disease who are also being treated with levothyroxine.
• Iron supplements: Iron supplements may be needed in some cases if the patient has iron-deficiency anemia.

It'simportant to keep in mind that treatment for Hashimoto's disease may need to beadjusted over time based on changes in symptoms and lab test results. Regularfollow-up visits with your doctor are important to monitor your condition andadjust your treatment as needed.
It'salso important to note that while hormone replacement therapy can effectivelymanage the symptoms of Hashimoto's disease, it cannot cure the condition. Insome cases, the thyroid gland may continue to be damaged and may eventually notfunction at all, requiring lifelong hormone replacement therapy.
It'simportant to work closely with your healthcare provider to find the righttreatment plan for you, and to follow the instructions of your healthcareprovider and the medication label closely.

Hashimoto's Disease supplements

While there is no specificsupplement that is recommended for people with Hashimoto's disease, somesupplements may help manage symptoms and support overall health. Some commonlyrecommended supplements for people with Hashimoto's disease include:

• Selenium: Selenium is a mineral that is important for thyroid function and can help lower levels of thyroid antibodies in people with Hashimoto's disease.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D is important for bone health and can help improve muscle and joint pain in people with Hashimoto's disease.
• Iron: Iron is important for overall health and can help manage symptoms of fatigue and weakness in people with Hashimoto's disease.
• Zinc: Zinc is important for overall health and can help improve immune function in people with Hashimoto's disease.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are important for overall health and can help reduce inflammation in people with Hashimoto's disease.

It'simportant to note that while these supplements may be beneficial, they shouldnot be used as a substitute for hormone replacement therapy, which is theprimary treatment for Hashimoto's disease. Also, it's important to talk to yourhealthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, as somesupplements can interact with medication or have other potential side effects.

It'salso important to note that not all supplements are regulated by the Food andDrug Administration (FDA) and quality can vary. Therefore, it's important tochoose supplements from reputable sources and to follow the instructions on thelabel.

Hashimoto's Disease Holistic Treatment

Holistic treatment for Hashimoto's Disease is a complementary approach that addresses not only the symptoms of thedisease but also the overall well-being of the person. Some commonly usedholistic treatment methods for Hashimoto's disease include:

• Stress management: Stress can aggravate symptoms of Hashimoto's disease and contribute to the development of autoimmune disorders.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. It is believed to help stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms and reduce inflammation.
• Herbal medicine: Herbs such as ashwagandha, ginger, and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties and may be helpful in managing symptoms of Hashimoto's disease.
• Homeopathy: Homeopathy is a holistic approach that uses very small doses of natural substances to stimulate the body's healing process. It's based on the belief that the body can heal itself if given the right stimulus.
• Nutrition and supplements: Nutrition plays a key role in managing Hashimoto's disease and a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help manage symptoms and support overall health.

It's important to note that while theseholistic methods may be beneficial, they should not be used as a substitute forhormone replacement therapy, which is the primary treatment for Hashimoto's Disease. It's also important to consult with a healthcare professional beforestarting any new holistic treatment method, as some methods may interact withmedication or have other potential side effects. It's also important to notethat not all holistic treatments are backed by scientific evidence, andtherefore it's important to be cautious and consult a healthcare professionalbefore trying any new treatment.

In addition to natural thyroid hormone replacement withbioidentical hormones, several supplements derived from nature's compendium canhelp buffer symptoms related to hormonal imbalance and optimize thyroidregulation and function. Some people have found supplementation to be useful intreating the symptoms of thyroid disease.
Thyroid disease can have an impact on systems throughout thebody, and thyroid treatments that include complementary therapies offersynergistic benefits. These natural products may be suggested by your doctor tocomplement your integrative thyroid treatment protocol. We recommend againstself-treating thyroid disease with complementary therapies in isolation. Pleaseseek the guidance of an experienced integrative medical professional.

Thyroid and Adreset

Adreset® (Ginseng, Rhodiola, Cordyceps) is a combination ofstandardized herbal extracts designed to buffer the stress response by promotinghealthy signaling between the pituitary gland, hypothalamus, and adrenalglands, increasing energy, and improving mental clarity.

Thyroid and Exhilarin

Exhilarin® (Gotu Kola, Ashwagandha, and Ginger Blend) is anotherherbal blend formulated to reduce stress while keeping energy levels intact. Bymaintaining greater equilibrium in the nervous response, the body is lesslikely to overreact during stress and deplete its energetic resources.

Thyroid and Iodoral

Iodoral® is a high-potency iodine/potassium iodine supplementthat repletes the body's iodine stores. Indispensable for synthesis of thyroidhormones and thyroid function, iodine also plays a powerful antioxidant role inall iodide-concentrating cells, such as the gastrointestinal lining and breasttissue.

Thyroid and Licorice Plus

Licorice Plus® (Rehmannia Root, Licorice Root, Chinese Yam)offer the natural properties of licorice and other natural herbs known to resetand balance the endocrine system.

Thyroid and Silymarin 80

Silymarin 80™ (Milk Thistle Seed Extract) helps reduce elevatedcholesterol, cleanse the liver of toxins, and reduce variables favorable tocardiovascular disease and cancer through its potent antioxidant properties.

Thyroid and Thyrosol

Thyrosol® (Rosemary, Selenium, Bladderwrack, and Vitamin Blend)is a supplement specifically designed for healthy thyroid support. This blendof medicinal herbs, minerals and vitamins supports synthesis of T4, as well asits conversion to T3. The binding of T3 to its DNA targets may also beimproved.

Thyroid and Vitamin D3

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is converted in the body to theactive 1,25(OH)2 form and interacts with the body's thyroid hormones in severalways. This conversion is regulated by parathyroid hormone (PTH). In thepresence of hyperthyroidism with vitamin D deficiency the body's thyroid(thyroxine) and parathyroid hormones compete to maintain calcium levels.Vitamin D deficiency is common and strongly associated with autoimmunedisorders, among many others.