Hashimoto’s disease, also known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, It is an auto-immune disorder which affects the thyroid gland.
It is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones.
In Hashimoto’s disease, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, which lead to inflammation and damage to the thyroid gland.
Over time, this can cause the thyroid to become enlarged and result in decreased production of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4).
Cause of Hashimoto’s disease
The exact cause of Hashimoto disease is not known, but it is believe to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Some factors that may contribute to the development of the condition include a family history of thyroid disorders, certain viral infections, and exposure to radiation.
Symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease
Symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease can vary widely but often include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, dry skin, constipation, hair loss, and muscle weakness.
The condition may progress slowly and can go undiagnosed for a long time, as the symptoms can be subtle and may be mistaken for other conditions.
Diagnosis of Hashimoto’s disease
Diagnosis of Hashimoto’s disease involves blood tests to measure the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), T3, and T4.
As well as the presence of specific antibodies related to the disease.
Treatment typically involves hormone replacement therapy to supplement the thyroid hormones that the gland is not producing adequately.
Treatment for hashimoto disease
The medical treatment for Hashimoto’s disease primarily aims to manage the symptoms and replace the thyroid hormones that the thyroid gland is unable to produce adequately.
The mainstay of treatment is hormone replacement therapy using synthetic thyroid hormones. Here are the key components of medical treatment for Hashimoto’s disease:
Synthetic Thyroid Hormone Replacement:
The most common medication prescribed is levothyroxine (brand names include Synthroid, Levoxyl, and others).
This medication is a synthetic form of the hormone thyroxine (T4), which is the primary hormone produced by the thyroid gland.
By taking levothyroxine orally, it helps bring the levels of thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) back to a normal range and alleviates the symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Regular Monitoring and Dose Adjustment:
After starting hormone replacement therapy, it’s essential to monitor thyroid hormone levels through blood tests periodically.
The doctor will adjust the dosage of levothyroxine based on the blood test results to ensure that thyroid hormone levels remain within the appropriate range.
Consistency in Medication:
It’s crucial to take the prescribed medication consistently and at the same time each day to maintain stable hormone levels in the body.
Lifestyle Management:
Along with medication, lifestyle modifications can also play a role in managing Hashimoto’s disease.
These may include maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, regular exercise, and getting sufficient sleep.
Monitoring and Managing Symptoms:
Regular follow-up visits with the healthcare provider are essential to monitor symptoms and ensure that the treatment plan remains effective.
If there are any concerns or new symptoms, they should be discussed with the doctor.
Avoiding Iodine Deficiency or Excess:
In some cases, excessive iodine intake can aggravate thyroid function.
The doctor may advise you to avoid iodine supplements or iodine-rich foods if they are contributing to your condition.
Treatment of Other Autoimmune Disorders:
People with Hashimoto’s disease may have a higher risk of developing other autoimmune disorders.
If other autoimmune conditions are present, they may need to be managed and treated accordingly.
It’s important to note that Hashimoto’s disease is a chronic condition that requires ongoing medical management.
With proper treatment and monitoring, most people with Hashimoto’s disease can lead healthy and productive lives.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional to discuss your specific condition and the appropriate treatment plan.
Physiotherapy treatment in hashimoto disease
Physiotherapy can be beneficial for people with Hashimoto’s disease.
Especially if they are experiencing symptoms such as muscle weakness, joint pain, or fatigue.
While physiotherapy cannot treat the underlying autoimmune condition itself.
it can help manage some of the secondary symptoms and improve the individual’s overall quality of life.
Exercise Prescription:
A physiotherapist can design a tailored exercise program to address muscle weakness, improve joint flexibility, and enhance overall physical fitness.
Low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, can be particularly beneficial for individuals with joint pain and muscle stiffness.
Strength Training:
Strengthening exercises can help improve muscle tone and reduce muscle weakness, which is common in Hashimoto’s disease.
The physiotherapist can recommend appropriate strength training exercises that target specific muscle groups.
Stretching and Flexibility Exercises: Regular stretching can help improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness. It can also help relieve muscle tension and improve mobility.
Pain Management Techniques:
Physiotherapists can employ various pain management techniques .
such as heat therapy, cold therapy, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) / interferentisal therapy (IFT) to alleviate joint and muscle pain.
Posture Correction:
Hashimoto’s disease can sometimes lead to fatigue and weakness, which may affect posture.
A physiotherapist can provide guidance on proper body mechanics and posture correction to prevent musculoskeletal problems.
Energy Conservation Strategies:
Fatigue is a common symptom of Hashimoto’s disease.
Physiotherapists can teach energy conservation techniques to help individuals manage their daily activities more efficiently and avoid overexertion.
Breathing Exercises and Relaxation Techniques:
Deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
Education and Self-Management:
Physiotherapists can educate patients about their condition, teach them self-management techniques, and provide advice on managing symptoms.
It’s essential to work with a qualified physiotherapist who has experience in treating individuals with autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s disease.
They can develop a personalized treatment plan based on the individual’s specific symptoms, physical capabilities, and goals.
Remember that physiotherapy should be seen as a complementary approach to medical treatment and should not replace the use of medication prescribed by a healthcare professional.
If you have Hashimoto’s disease and are considering physiotherapy, consult with your healthcare team to ensure that the treatment plan is safe and appropriate for your condition.