Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Treatment in Indore

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (also called Chronic Lymphocytic Thyroiditis) is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing gradual destruction of thyroid tissue.

It is the most common cause of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) in areas with sufficient iodine.

The thyroid gland slowly loses its ability to produce adequate thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), leading to a wide range of metabolic disturbances.

Causes & Risk Factors

1. Autoimmune Dysfunction

The immune system produces antibodies against thyroid tissue, mainly:

Anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies

Anti-thyroglobulin antibodies

2. Genetic Predisposition

Often runs in families with autoimmune diseases

Strong links to HLA genes

3. Gender & Age

More common in women

Usually develops between ages 30–50

4. Environmental Triggers

Stress

Excessive intake of iodine

Radiation exposure

Viral infections

5. Other Autoimmune Conditions

Type 1 diabetes

Rheumatoid arthritis

Pernicious anemia

Celiac disease

How Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Affects the Body Mechanism

The immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

Chronic inflammation destroys thyroid tissue slowly.

The production of thyroid hormone is reduced- hypothyroidism.

Metabolic processes slow down, affecting energy, digestion, heart rate, and brain function.

Symptoms of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Symptoms often develop gradually and may be subtle at first.

Early Signs

Mild fatigue

Weight gain despite a normal diet

Cold intolerance

Constipation

Puffy face

Progressive Symptoms

Goitre (enlarged thyroid gland, often painless)

Dry skin and brittle hair

thinning of hair or hair loss

Swelling of hands, feet, or around the eyes

Hoarseness

Slowed heart rate

Systemic Symptoms

Depression, low mood

Poor concentration (“brain fog”)

Irregular menstruation

Swelling of the tongue or voice changes

Puffy or pale skin

Complications if untreated

Myxedema (severe hypothyroidism)

Heart ailments are due to high cholesterol and slow metabolism.

Infertility

Neurological problems, such as memory loss and slowed reflexes

Rare: thyroid lymphoma

Diagnosis

1. Blood Tests

TSH: high in hypothyroidism

Free T4 and Free T3: low or normal, depending on the stage

Anti-TPO antibodies: positive in most cases

Anti-thyroglobulin antibodies: supportive

2. Imaging

Ultrasound: may reveal an enlarged or nodular thyroid, heterogeneous texture

3. Physical Examination

The thyroid gland may feel firm or rubbery

Goitre can be diagnosed

Conventional Medical Treatment

1. Thyroid Hormone Replacement (Treatment of choice)

Levothyroxine = synthetic T4

Dose adjusted based on TSH levels

Lifelong therapy is usually required.

2. Monitoring

Regular blood tests to check TSH, T3, and T4

Dose adjustment of medication over time

3. Surgery

Rarely required unless there is a suspicion of cancer or a huge goitre

Lifestyle, Diet & Supportive Care

1. Nutrition

Balanced diet for thyroid health

Adequate iodine, not too much

Selenium-rich foods (nuts, fish)

Avoid highly processed foods and excess soy (if sensitive to soy)

2. Stress Management

Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises

Stress reduction contributes to immune regulation.

3. Integrative & Complementary Approaches

Homeopathy or Ayurveda may help with:

Fatigue

Stress

Digestion

Overall immunity

These approaches cannot replace thyroid hormone therapy, but can support well-being

4. Exercise

Regular light exercises support metabolism, mood, and cardiovascular health.

Prognosis

With appropriate hormonal replacement and follow-up, Most patients lead normal and healthy lives. Energy levels and metabolism improve. Complications are preventable. Untreated disease may lead to severe hypothyroidism and organ complications