subject: Learn Why Hashimotos Disease Turns Your Body On Itself [print this page] Hashimotos thyroiditis is also known as Hashimotos disease. It is the first auto immune disease discovered. Hashimotos thyroiditis affects the thyroid gland and its production of the thyroid hormone.
The thyroid gland is in control of protein production, regulation of the metabolism, and distribution of energy use for various processes in the body. This disease affects the bodys normal functions related to the tasks of the thyroid gland.
People with Hashimotos thyroiditis have inflamed thyroid glands. Being an auto immune disease, the body attacks the gland and damages the said gland. Two types of antibodies are responsible for inflaming the thyroid gland; Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPO) and Thyroglobulin Antibodies. They attack the thyroid and damage its epithelial cells. A blood test can determine whether a person has Hashimotos thyroiditis.
Symptoms include:
Weight gain due to imbalance of metabolism
Intolerance to the cold
Dry hair that could eventually lead to hair falling out
Lack of focus and energy
Constipation
Swelling of the legs
Common Causes for Hashimotos Thyroiditis
When the thyroid gland is not in its normal condition, production of the thyroid hormone is affected. The thyroid can either produce too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroiditis) or be under active and not produce the enough hormones needed (hypothyroidism).
Hypothyroidism is most commonly caused by Hashimotos thyroiditis. Thus, the symptoms of an individual with Hashimotos thyroiditis are very similar to those of one with hypothyroidism. Sometimes, Hashimotos disease is misdiagnosed as chronic fatigue syndrome, or even depression.
Genetically, Hashimotos thyroiditis can be present and common among family members. This auto immune disease is related to the HLA-DR5 gene and the CTLA-4 gene. There are also environmental factors that can lead to Hashimotos disease.
Too much iodine intake and exposure to tobacco or smoke from cigarettes can lead to this as well. People with a family history of Hashimotos thyroiditis should avoid such environmental factors.
What Can Be Done?
Individuals with Hashimotos thyroiditis can experience bursts of hypothyroidism. Consistently getting checked by a doctor for the rate of thyroid hormones produced or needed is advised. In some severe cases where the thyroid gland is too damaged or inflamed, thyroid hormone replacement may be needed. This will balance the thyroid hormones in the body. Undergoing thyroid hormone therapy is one of the leading solutions for thyroid problems.
Leaving the condition untreated may lead to body malfunctions like muscle failure which can lead to heart failure. In children, growth may slow down because of the thyroid glands abnormal condition that affects the processes needed for proper maturation.
