Hashimoto's

Hashimoto's disease, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid gland. It's the most common cause of hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormones. Symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, difficulty concentrating, and feeling cold.

If you're experiencing these symptoms, consulting a Hashimoto's Specialist is crucial. A specialist can diagnose the condition through blood tests and recommend personalised treatment plans to manage your thyroid function and improve your overall well-being. Don't hesitate to seek professional help and take control of your health.

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Hashimoto's Disease: Understanding the Autoimmune Attack on Your Thyroid

Hashimoto's disease, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is the most common cause of an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). It's an autoimmune disorder, meaning your body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues.

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Hashimoto's

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Hashiona

Hashiona is an app designed by clinicians to stabilize the immune system, the balance of hormone levels and lower antibodies that cause Hashimoto and hyperthyroidism.

What is a
Hashimoto's Practitioner

Hashimoto’s disease, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck. This condition leads to inflammation of the thyroid gland, causing it to produce fewer thyroid hormones, resulting in an underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism. Hashimoto’s disease is one of the most common causes of hypothyroidism and can lead to a variety of symptoms that affect multiple bodily functions, including metabolism, energy levels, and overall health.

What Causes Hashimoto’s Disease?

Hashimoto’s disease occurs when the immune system creates antibodies that attack the thyroid gland, leading to its gradual destruction. The exact cause of this immune system malfunction is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic factors, environmental triggers, and possibly infections. People with a family history of thyroid disease or other autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, are at an increased risk of developing Hashimoto’s disease. Iodine deficiency and exposure to excessive amounts of iodine can also contribute to the development of this condition.

Treatments Available for Hashimoto’s Disease

Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy

The primary treatment for Hashimoto’s disease involves replacing the deficient thyroid hormone with synthetic thyroid hormone medicine. This therapy helps to normalise thyroid hormone levels, alleviate symptoms of hypothyroidism, and improve overall health. Practitioners carefully monitor thyroid hormone levels through regular blood tests to ensure that the dosage is optimised for each patient.

Nutritional Support and Dietary Changes:

Proper nutrition is crucial for managing Hashimoto’s disease. Practitioners provide personalised dietary advice to support thyroid function and overall health. This may include recommendations for foods rich in selenium, zinc, and iodine, which are essential for thyroid health, as well as advice on avoiding foods that may negatively affect thyroid function, such as those high in goitrogens

Immune System Support

Since Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune disorder, supporting the immune system is a key aspect of treatment. Practitioners offer strategies to reduce inflammation, balance the immune response, and improve overall immune health. This may include the use of specific supplements, herbal remedies, and lifestyle modifications to reduce stress and support immune function.

Lifestyle Modifications:

Lifestyle factors such as stress, sleep, and exercise can significantly impact the management of Hashimoto’s disease. Practitioners provide guidance on incorporating stress-reducing practices, regular physical activity, and sufficient sleep into daily routines. These changes can help improve energy levels, reduce symptoms, and enhance overall well-being.

FAQs

How often should thyroid levels be checked in people with Hashimoto’s disease?

It is recommended that people with Hashimoto’s disease have their thyroid hormone levels checked regularly, usually every 6 to 12 months, or as advised by their healthcare provider. This helps to ensure that the thyroid hormone replacement therapy is working effectively and that the dosage is appropriate.

Can Hashimoto’s disease be cured?

While there is no cure for Hashimoto’s disease, it can be effectively managed with the right treatment plan. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy and lifestyle changes can help control symptoms and prevent further damage to the thyroid gland.

How is Hashimoto’s disease diagnosed?

Hashimoto’s disease is diagnosed through blood tests that measure thyroid hormone levels, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and the presence of antibodies against the thyroid gland. A physical examination of the thyroid gland and a review of symptoms are also part of the diagnostic process.

What treatments are available for Hashimoto's disease?

The primary treatment for Hashimoto's disease is hormone replacement therapy with synthetic thyroid hormone, usually in the form of levothyroxine. This medication helps restore normal thyroid hormone levels and alleviate symptoms of hypothyroidism. Regular monitoring of thyroid levels is necessary to adjust the medication dosage as needed.

What causes Hashimoto's disease?

Hashimoto's disease is caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the thyroid gland. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental triggers (such as infections or stress), and hormonal changes. Hashimoto's disease is more common in women than men and tends to run in families.

What are the common symptoms of Hashimoto's disease?

Common symptoms of Hashimoto's disease include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, muscle weakness, joint pain, depression, memory issues, and a puffy face. Symptoms often develop slowly and may be mistaken for other health conditions.