Disease of autoimmune thyroiditis is characterized by impaired human immunity. Thyroid cells begin to be perceived by immunity as foreign. This disease is one of the most common of all thyroid gland diseases. In connection with the violation of the thyroid gland, in which the necessary amount of hormones is no longer produced, hypothyroidism may develop on the background of autoimmune thyroiditis.
Causes of the disease
Factors influencing the development of the disease include:
- hereditary predisposition;
- complications of catarrhal diseases, polluted atmosphere;
- long-term uncontrolled use of iodine-containing drugs;
- radiation exposure.
Development of the disease
At the initial stage of development of autoimmune thyroiditis (euthyroidism) the thyroid gland retains its properties. It produces enough hormones, and such a state of danger for a person does not carry.
But with the development of the disease there are changes in the thyroid gland associated with the destruction of its epithelium. The next stage is an increase in the hormone TSH, while the number of others is reduced or remains at the initial level. This stage of autoimmune thyroiditis is called subclinical hypothyroidism. It was named so, because unlike expressed gipoterioza, subclinical proceeds without symptoms. However, often the disease is accompanied by a violation of the metabolic process. For this reason, the person has a worsening mood, the patient complains of fatigue, weakness, memory impairment, depression. At the same time, there are no signs of abnormalities in the thyroid gland functioning.
There is a misconception that autoimmune thyroiditis is dangerous only for the thyroid gland, but this disease can have serious consequences for other organs. Patients face the following problems:
- disruption of the nervous system (depression, weakness, irritability);
- inflammation of the joints, the appearance of pain in the muscles;
- deterioration of eyesight, fatigue of the eyes, flies in the eyes;
- inflammation of mucous membranes due to decreased immunity (bronchitis, herpes, pharyngitis , thrush).
Symptoms of the disease
Identify the first stages of the presence of this disease can only be through examination. When thyroid functions are violated, and hypothyroidism occurs, then signs of autoimmune thyroiditis become noticeable. These include:
- an increase in the size of the thyroid gland, as a result of which there may be difficulties in swallowing and breathing;
- swelling of the face, blush, red spots;
- disruption of the nervous system, depression, fatigue;
- brittle and dry hair;
- deterioration of memory, decrease in working capacity;
- violation of menstruation in women and the development of impotence in men.
Treatment of autoimmune thyroiditis
So far, no method has been developed that could prevent the transformation of thyroiditis into hypothyroidism. The fight against hypothyroidism is conducted with the help of levothyroxine. Goals that are trying to achieve
- fight with inflammation of the thyroid gland, restoration of work;
- elimination of formed nodes and preventing the development of new ones;
- adjustment of hormonal balance.
To restore the immunity resorted to folk remedies. A change in diet with autoimmune thyroiditis will help ease the course of the disease. In the diet, it is necessary to include foods containing antioxidants. These substances contribute to the removal of harmful substances from the body. To do this, you should eat more fruits and vegetables, drink beet juices and carrots, adding a bit of flaxseed oil for better digestion. It is useful to drink juices that contain vitamin C.