Subacute thyroiditis is an acute inflammatory disease of the thyroid caused by a virus. The disease is brought on by a viral infection of the respiratory system like the mumps or flu.
Subacute thyroiditis is an acute inflammatory disease of the thyroid caused by a virus. The disease is brought on by a viral infection of the respiratory system like the mumps or flu. The virus will result in a high body temperature, as well as the pain in neck area where the thyroid is located. The pain can move from side to side and be intensified by swallowing, touching and turning the head. Subacute thyroiditis can last 12 to 18 months.
Subacute thyroiditis can lead to hyperthyroidism if the inflamed thyroid gland produces too much of the thyroid hormone.
Subacute thyroiditis can lead to hyperthyroidism if the inflamed thyroid gland produces too much of the thyroid hormone. If the inflamed thyroid gland produces too little of the thyroid hormone, it can result in hypothyroidism. Once the disease is treated, these conditions usually go away, but in some cases, they may become permanent.
If you have had a respiratory infection, it is a good idea to go to your doctor to see if you have developed subacute thyroiditis. He will feel your neck for swelling near the thyroid gland. If he suspects there might be symptoms, he will conduct a blood test to determine the levels of T4 (thyroid hormone) and TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) Â in your blood. If either of these are at abnormal levels, there is a good chance you may have subacute thyroiditis.
If you are diagnosed with subacute thyroiditis, your doctor will give you something for the pain and inflammation. Often, this is the only treatment for subacute thyroiditis.
If you are diagnosed with subacute thyroiditis, your doctor will give you something for the pain and inflammation. Often, this is the only treatment for subacute thyroiditis. Over the counter of prescription strength anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen could be helpful. Those who do not respond to these medications may be prescribed a corticosteroid which is a more powerful anti-inflammatory. Beta blockers may also be prescribed if hypothyroidism is found in the early stages.
Although some vaccines that reduce the likelihood of viral infections may be effecting in the prevention of subacute thryoiditis, it can still be contracted if other factors are at play. Early detection is important in the treating of symptoms and in decreasing the chances of ongoing thyroid conditions. Stay on top of your thyroid health to keep the chances of thyroid issues becoming a permanent part of your life.
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