Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Alternate Names : Chronic Lymphocytic Thyroiditis
What are the treatments for the disease?
Treatment generally focuses on managing the level of thyroid
hormone. If the level is low, as it is in most cases, the doctor
will prescribe thyroid hormone pills. If the thyroid level is high, the doctor will prescribe
medicines that block thyroid hormone from working in the
body. Rarely, surgery may be needed if the thyroid gland gets too
big.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
All medicines have side effects. If too much thyroid
medicine is given, the levels can become toxic. Medicines used to
treat abnormal thyroid levels may cause:
allergic reactions
stomach upset
other side effects
Surgery carries the following risks:
bleeding
infection
allergic reaction
to the anesthesia
What happens after treatment for the disease?
A person with Hashimoto thyroiditis often requires
monitoring and treatment for life.
How is the disease monitored?
Periodic thyroid function tests
and visits to the doctor are recommended to monitor the
course of the disease. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported
to the doctor as well.
|
Previous section
