Hypothyroidism refers to the decreased function of the thyroid gland. The most common cause of the hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis or struma lymphomatosa).
The most common cause of the hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis or struma lymphomatosa). This is an autoimmune disease in which causes disturbances of the immune system and can result in chronic (long-term) destruction of the thyroid tissue which can result in damage to the fibrous (scar) tissue and lymphocytes.
Early stages of the disease may be characterized by temporary hypothyroidism due to sudden release of hormones from the damaged tissue.
The disease is characterized by the positive antibodies thyroglobulin, anti-Tg (>34 J/ml) and thyroid peroxidase, anti-TPO (>12 J/ml). This diagnosis occurs more often in women and the frequency of the disease increases with age. Early stages of the disease may be characterized by temporary hypothyroidism due to sudden release of hormones from the damaged tissue.
Other causes of hypothyroidism can be: other autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis or other thyroid inflammatory processes, thyroiditis (Riedel’s Thyroiditis, Subacute thyroiditis), pregnancy, taking lithium (such as, a therapy for manic-depressive illness), age (10 % of all women after the age of 50 have hypo) and conditions after radioactive iodine therapy or surgery.
There are several treatment options available for those who are suffering with hypothyroidism. If you suspect you may have hypothyroidism or any other thyroid condition, consult a physician. He will be able to educate you and offer the best solutions in treating your condition.
You can check out Differences between Hypothyroidism & Hyperthyroidism.
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