WHAT IS THYROIDITIS?

The thyroid gland, one of the hormone-producing organs, is situated at the front of the neck, directly in front of the windpipe. Thyroid regulates all body functions. As we already know suffix of 'itis' means inflammation of the part to which 'itis' is added, Thyroiditis is inflammation of this gland.

AFFECTS

Both sexes between ages 30 and 50, but more common in women.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Enlarged, painful, tender thyroid gland.
• Fever.
• Pain in the jaw or ears (sometimes).
• Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism (rapid heartbeat, nervousness, tremor and rapid weight loss).

CAUSES

Disorder of the autoimmune system, accompanied by one of the following:

• Various viruses, such as mumps or influenza.
• Rheumatoid arthritis.
• Bacterial infection of the thyroid gland (very rare).

RISK INCREASES WITH

• Recent illness, such as tuberculosis or any infection.
• Pregnancy.
• Family history of thyroiditis.
• Previous thyroid disorders.

HOW TO PREVENT

No specific preventive measures.

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES

• Observation of suggestive symptoms.
• History and physical exam by a doctor.
• Laboratory blood counts and tests of thyroid function.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

Permanent loss of thyroid function, requiring lifelong thyroid-hormone replacement.

PROBABLE OUTCOME

Usually curable with treatment whereas some recover spontaneously. Regular medical follow-up is recommended after the condition is apparently cured.

TREATMENT

GENERAL

No specific instructions except those listed under other headings.

SPECIFIC

Your doctor may prescribe:

• Antithyroid medication or thyroid replacement hormones, depending on the activity of your thyroid hormones.
• Drugs to suppress symptoms of an overactive thyroid.
• Antibiotics to fight infection, if necessary.
• Aspirin in high doses to help inflammation subside.

ACTIVITY

Resume your normal activities as soon as symptoms improve.

DIET

No special diet.

CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR, IF

• You notice symptoms of thyroiditis.
• The following occurs during treatment:
• Fever and redness of the thyroid gland.
• Lethargy.
• New, unexplained symptoms develop.
• Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.

| Hyperthyroidism | Hypothyroidism |