Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. It causes the body’s immune system to attack and damage the thyroid, leading to an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). It is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in developed countries. It affects females more than males, with a ratio of 10:1.

The exact cause of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

What are the most common symptoms of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis?

1. Fatigue: this is the most common symptom of hypothyroidism.  
2. Weight gain: this occurs because your thyroid gland isn’t able to regulate your metabolism efficiently.
3. Cold intolerance: This is also due to a slower metabolism.
4. Hair loss.
5. Dry skin and hair.
6. Constipation.
7. Joint pain.
8. Depression. 

How is Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis diagnosed?

It can be diagnosed using blood labs and sometimes imaging (Ultrasound). The following tests will typically be ordered by your doctor to determine if you have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis:

1. TSH (Thyroid stimulating hormone): This will typically be high, indicating a sluggish thyroid (hypothyroidism) or it can be normal.
2. Free T4: This is the inactive form of thyroid hormone. It can be low or normal.
3. Free T3: This is the active form of thyroid hormone that binds to the receptors on your cells and regulates your body’s functions. It can be low or normal.
4. Microsomal TPO antibodies: These antibodies will be high. This is the most common antibody to be elevated in people that have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
5. Thyroglobulin antibodies: These are antibodies that will also sometimes be elevated in people that have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
6. Thyroid Ultrasound: We can visualize the thyroid gland with an ultrasound. It is common to develop benign nodules in the thyroid gland due to the autoimmune/inflammatory response occurring with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. The thyroid gland can also show enlargement.

How do you treat Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?

1. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy: This can be with either Levothyroxine (synthetic T4) or thyroid glandular medications (NP thyroid, Armour thyroid) is a primary treatment for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
2. Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN): This is also very commonly prescribed by alternative medicine doctors, including naturopathic physicians. LDN to helps decrease the autoimmune response in your body. It is prepared via a compounding pharmacy, which allows for individualized dosing. A typically maintenance dose for LDN is 4.5 mg/day. However, I often recommend a slow titration upward over a period of 3-4 weeks to avoid any possible side effects. LDN is generally very well tolerated and side effects are pretty uncommon. The most common side effect is vivid dreams or nightmares, however, this can be easily remedied by taking it in the morning instead of before bed. LINK TO LDN???
3. Selenium: This is an important mineral that helps to decrease thyroid antibodies. It is also an antioxidant, which helps protect the thyroid gland against oxidative damage. It also helps in the conversion of T4 (inactive form of thyroid hormone) to T3 (active form of thyroid hormone).
4. Gluten-free diet: Research has shown that eating gluten can worsen Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and increase antibody production. A gluten-free diet is recommended to decrease antibodies.
5. Healthy life style choices: Eating a plant-based diet with the addition of good, clean animal proteins, plenty of good fats and foods that contain antioxidants help to protect your thyroid gland. Regular exercise is also important in supporting a healthy body and thyroid gland.
6. Surgery may be an option if the thyroid gland becomes too enlarged or cancerous, but this is very uncommon. 

If you or someone you know has Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or suspect that you do, you should schedule an appointment with your naturopathic doctor for a thorough evaluation and start your healing journey now.

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