The thyroid gland plays a key role in regulating metabolism, energy exchange, and the functioning of the entire body. One of the most common diseases of this organ is autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) – a chronic inflammatory disease that develops as a result of immune system disorders. AIT affects the thyroid gland, which can lead to changes in its structure and functional activity.

The disease is often diagnosed in middle-aged women, but it can also occur in men and even in children. Signs of AIT may remain unnoticed for a long time or manifest as various hormonal imbalances. Understanding the causes, signs, and methods of treatment of this disease helps to consult a doctor in time and avoid complications.

Autoimmune Thyroiditis: What Is It?

Autoimmune thyroiditis is a chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland caused by the immune system attacking its tissues. As a result of this process, thyroid cells are gradually destroyed, which can lead to its dysfunction – both excessive production of hormones and their deficiency.

Depending on the course of the disease, the following forms of autoimmune thyroiditis are distinguished:

  • Hypertrophic form – the thyroid gland is enlarged, which may lead to the formation of nodules and diffuse changes.

  • Atrophic form – the gland gradually decreases due to the destruction of its cells.

  • Euthyroid form – the thyroid function remains at a normal level, although structural changes may be pronounced.

AIT may develop gradually, causing no significant symptoms for years, but without treatment it can lead to hypothyroidism – a condition where the body experiences a deficiency of thyroid hormones.

Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Symptoms

The symptoms of autoimmune thyroiditis depend on the stage of the disease and the level of thyroid hormones in the blood. In the early stages, the disease may progress without pronounced clinical manifestations. However, over time, the following signs of autoimmune thyroiditis may appear:

  • A feeling of discomfort or pressure in the neck area.

  • Enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter).

  • Difficulty swallowing or breathing (with significant enlargement of the gland).

  • Chronic fatigue, weakness.

  • Weight fluctuations without obvious reasons.

  • Depressed mood, irritability.

  • Brittle hair and nails, dry skin.

  • Reduced memory and concentration.

  • Menstrual cycle disorders in women.

At later stages, autoimmune thyroiditis with subclinical hypothyroidism develops, when thyroid hormone levels decrease but the changes do not yet cause severe symptoms. In such cases, only laboratory tests help detect the disorder.

Causes of AIT

The main cause of AIT is an immune system malfunction, due to which it begins to perceive thyroid cells as foreign and attack them. Risk factors include:

  • Genetic predisposition – having AIT in close relatives increases the likelihood of the disease.

  • Chronic viral and bacterial infections.

  • Excess or deficiency of iodine in the body.

  • Stress and excessive physical exertion.

  • Hormonal disorders, particularly during pregnancy and menopause.

  • Exposure to toxic substances and radiation.

Children may also develop this disease. Autoimmune thyroiditis in children manifests with similar symptoms but is often accompanied by delays in physical and mental development.

Diagnosis of Autoimmune Thyroiditis

Autoimmune thyroiditis is difficult to diagnose. In the early stages, signs of thyroiditis may be subtle. To establish the diagnosis, the endocrinologist conducts a comprehensive examination, which includes:

  1. Laboratory tests

    • Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) – the main regulator of thyroid function. Elevated TSH may indicate hypothyroidism, while decreased TSH suggests hyperthyroidism.

    • Free thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) – hormones that affect metabolism and energy processes in the body.

    • Antibodies to thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) – elevated levels indicate an autoimmune process in the thyroid gland.

    • Antibodies to thyroglobulin (anti-TG) – may be a marker of autoimmune thyroid damage.

    • Thyroglobulin level – a protein produced by thyroid cells.

  2. Instrumental methods

    • Thyroid ultrasound – one of the key diagnostic methods that allows assessment of size, structure, and presence of nodules. Ultrasound can reveal diffuse-focal changes typical of AIT.

    • Fine-needle aspiration biopsy – performed if there is suspicion of a malignant process or when nodules are found in the thyroid tissue.

  3. Additional studies

    • Scintigraphy – used to assess thyroid functional activity, especially if nodular goiter is suspected.

    • MRI or CT – rarely used, usually in cases of atypical thyroid location or suspected tumor involvement.

A comprehensive examination makes it possible not only to establish the diagnosis but also to determine the stage of the disease, which is important for further treatment.

Treatment of Autoimmune Thyroiditis

Treatment of AIT depends on the stage of the disease and thyroid hormone levels. The main goal of therapy is to reduce the inflammatory process and correct hormonal imbalances.

  1. Medication therapy

    • Hormone replacement therapy – in the development of hypothyroidism, drugs are prescribed to compensate for the deficiency of thyroid hormones. Dosage is selected individually depending on TSH levels and clinical symptoms.

    • Iodine-containing drugs – prescribed only in cases of iodine deficiency, as excess iodine may worsen AIT.

    • Anti-inflammatory drugs – in rare cases may be used to reduce inflammation, especially in cases of severe pain.

    • Vitamins and trace elements – especially important for maintaining normal body function in AIT: selenium, zinc, vitamins D, B12.

  2. Surgical treatment
    Surgery (thyroidectomy – partial or total removal of the thyroid gland) is rarely performed, usually in cases of:

    • Significant enlargement of the thyroid gland, making breathing or swallowing difficult.

    • Suspicion of malignant changes in tissues.

    • Rapidly growing nodules.

  3. Observation in euthyroidism
    In autoimmune thyroiditis with euthyroidism, thyroid function remains normal. In such cases, specific treatment is not prescribed, but regular monitoring of hormone levels (TSH, T3, T4) and ultrasound examination is necessary.

Living with Autoimmune Thyroiditis

AIT is a chronic disease that requires constant monitoring. However, following simple recommendations helps maintain quality of life and avoid complications.

  1. Regular thyroid monitoring

    • Visit an endocrinologist at least 1–2 times a year.

    • Monitor hormone levels (TSH, T3, T4) and antibodies.

    • Periodic ultrasound examinations.

  2. Proper nutrition
    The diet should be balanced and include sufficient protein, vitamins, and trace elements. It is important to:

    • Limit consumption of foods that may cause iodine deficiency (cabbage, broccoli, soy).

    • Eat foods rich in selenium (nuts, seafood, eggs).

    • Avoid excessive consumption of iodine-containing products without medical advice.

  3. Healthy lifestyle

    • Regular physical activity (yoga, swimming, walking) helps maintain metabolism.

    • Stress control – chronic stress can worsen autoimmune reactions. Relaxation practices, meditation, and adequate sleep help normalize body function.

    • Giving up bad habits – smoking and alcohol can negatively affect thyroid health.

Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Consequences

Without proper treatment, serious consequences may develop, such as:

  • Hypothyroidism – a condition where the body experiences thyroid hormone deficiency, which can lead to general weakness, depression, and metabolic disorders.

  • Cardiovascular disorders – elevated cholesterol, arterial hypertension.

  • Reduced reproductive function – in women, menstrual irregularities and infertility are possible.

  • Changes in the central nervous system – cognitive disorders, reduced concentration.

Disease control and timely treatment help prevent complications and maintain high quality of life.

Autoimmune thyroiditis is a chronic disease that requires constant monitoring and appropriate treatment. It may not cause noticeable symptoms for a long time, but gradually leads to thyroid dysfunction, including hypothyroidism. Timely diagnosis and properly selected therapy help avoid complications and maintain quality of life.

If you notice signs of thyroiditis, feel chronic fatigue, weight changes, emotional instability, or have a hereditary predisposition to the disease – do not postpone your visit to the doctor. At Oxford Medical, experienced endocrinologists will conduct a full examination, determine the condition of the thyroid gland, and select optimal treatment.

Book a consultation with an endocrinologist at Oxford Medical at a convenient time – take care of your health today!

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is autoimmune thyroiditis?

Autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT) is a chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland in which the immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues, which can lead to reduced hormone production (hypothyroidism).

What symptoms are typical of AIT?

Fatigue, thyroid enlargement, dry skin, weight gain, depression, feeling cold, menstrual irregularities, reduced concentration.

How is autoimmune thyroiditis treated?

Treatment involves taking hormone medications if thyroid function decreases. It is important to regularly monitor TSH and T4 levels, watch your well-being, and visit an endocrinologist.