If you fail to be familiar with something known as Hashimoto’s Disease, don’t fret; I don’t believe it is a widely known and understood diagnosis, although it arguably should be, and I will gladly provide you with a general overview of what it is, entails, and some other relevant information to the condition.
The reason I wanted to dedicate a post to this is because one of my teammates on my rugby team suffers from it.
The following information comes from mayoclinic.org.
“Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid gland… In Hashimoto’s disease, immune-system cells lead to the death of the thyroid’s hormone-producing cells. The disease usually results in a decline in hormone production (hypothyroidism). Although anyone can develop Hashimoto’s disease, it’s most common among middle-aged women. The primary treatment is thyroid hormone replacement. Hashimoto’s disease is also known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis and chronic autoimmune thyroiditis.
“Hashimoto’s disease progresses slowly over the years. You may not notice signs or symptoms of the disease. Eventually, the decline in thyroid hormone production can result in any of the following:
- Fatigue and sluggishness
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Increased sleepiness
- Dry skin
- Constipation
- Muscle weakness
- Muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Irregular or excessive menstrual bleeding
- Depression
- Problems with memory or concentration
- Swelling of the thyroid (goiter)
- A puffy face
- Brittle nails
- Hair loss
- Enlargement of the tongue,” the web page explains.
As for diagnosis, blood tests and antibody tests are often performed to check your thyroid and to identify foreign agents in the body, and hormone replacement therapy is usually recommended for treatment. Living an active lifestyle and abiding by a healthy diet are helpful ways to avoid worsening the condition.
If you suspect you may have Hashimoto’s Disease, consult with your physician to determine the best approach forward.
ontheedgeofeverything 