What Is Hashimoto's Thyroiditis?

Ear, Nose & Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center is here for you with a skilled team of physicians and surgeons. We can help treat a variety of conditions including thyroid problems like Hashimoto's Thyroiditis in Fredericksburg, and Stafford, VA. Keep reading about this condition and come see us if you're struggling with symptoms.

What Is Hashimoto's Thyroiditis?

Hashimoto's Thyroiditis or Hashimoto's Disease is a case of hypothyroidism. This means you are not producing enough hormone from your thyroid gland, the butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the throat. Hormone levels affect your whole body, so there are various symptoms of hypothyroid including:

• Fatigue and depleted energy
• Depression
• Brittle nails
• Dry skin
• Constipation
• Memory problems
• Always feeling cold
• Heavy or irregular periods in women

Don't ignore any combination of these symptoms or any symptoms you can't explain. Come talk to your doctor about testing your thyroid levels in Fredericksburg, VA, or Stafford, VA.

What Causes Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis?

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder, meaning that your immune system stops recognizing the thyroid gland as your own body and begins attacking it. This makes you produce less and less thyroid over time. Other causes can include exposure to large amounts of iodide (which was a past treatment for croup in children), high levels of lithium, and if for any reason you've had to have your thyroid gland removed.

How Is It Treated?

Hypothyroidism causes a lot of uncomfortable symptoms, but there is treatment available. HRT or hormone replacement therapy. Supplemental, synthetic thyroid can be delivered by oral medication and bring your thyroid levels back up.

The team of physicians at Ear, Nose & Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery Center can help if you've been struggling with thyroid problems in Fredericksburg, or Stafford, VA. Contact us for an appointment at either our Fredericksburg or Stafford locations at (540) 371-1226.