The thyroid gland is responsible for metabolism, energy levels, and the functioning of the heart and nervous system. If its function is impaired, this gradually affects the condition of the entire body. One of the common causes of such changes is autoimmune thyroiditis — a disease in which the immune system mistakenly begins to attack the cells of its own thyroid gland.
At first, a person may not experience pronounced symptoms. Over time, fatigue, drowsiness, weight fluctuations, dry skin, and mood changes appear. That is why it is important to understand what happens in the body with this disease and how to act properly in order to maintain good well-being.
What Is Autoimmune Thyroiditis
Autoimmune thyroiditis is a chronic disease of the thyroid gland in which the immune system mistakenly perceives its cells as “foreign” and gradually damages them. As a result, inflammation develops in the gland tissue, and over time the structure and function of the gland change. This condition is also known as Hashimoto’s disease.
AIT develops slowly, sometimes over years, and for a long time may not cause pronounced symptoms. In many patients, hormone levels initially remain normal, and only laboratory indicators — in particular elevated antibodies — indicate the presence of an autoimmune process.
Over time, due to the gradual destruction of cells, the production of thyroid hormones decreases. This may lead to the development of hypothyroidism — a condition in which the body experiences a deficiency of thyroid hormones. It is at this stage that pronounced symptoms most often appear: constant fatigue, slowed metabolism, increased sensitivity to cold, swelling.
The causes of the development of the disease are associated with genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, the influence of stress, and past infections. An important role is played by a combination of several factors rather than one specific cause.
Can Autoimmune Thyroiditis Be Cured
Autoimmune thyroiditis is a chronic disease. Modern medicine cannot completely stop the autoimmune process and restore already damaged thyroid tissue.
However, this does not mean inevitable progression. In many patients, gland function remains stable for a long time, and if necessary, hormonal disorders are effectively compensated with medication.
Thus, it is not about complete recovery, but about long-term control of the condition. With regular monitoring and properly selected therapy, a person can live a full life without significant limitations in daily activities.
How to Treat Autoimmune Thyroiditis
It is important to understand: treatment of AIT is carried out when hormonal balance changes or there is a high risk of its disturbance. An elevated antibody level alone is not an indication for prescribing hormones.
The goal of therapy is to maintain stable thyroid hormone levels, prevent the development of hypothyroidism, and minimize the impact of the disease on the cardiovascular, nervous, and reproductive systems.
Main Treatment Methods
The approach depends on the stage of the process and laboratory indicators:
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Dynamic monitoring. If TSH and T4 remain within normal limits, medication therapy may not be prescribed. Hormone levels are recommended to be checked every 6–12 months and a thyroid ultrasound performed when indicated.
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Hormone replacement therapy. Prescribed in the development of overt or persistent subclinical hypothyroidism. The dose is selected individually and adjusted gradually, with repeated TSH monitoring after 6–8 weeks.
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Correction of concomitant deficiencies. Vitamin D, B12 deficiency, or low ferritin levels are often detected in AIT. Their correction improves overall well-being and tolerance of therapy.
Patients with this diagnosis are managed by endocrinologists who assess the dynamics of indicators and adjust treatment depending on changes in the hormonal profile. It is important not to change the dose of the medication independently and not to discontinue therapy without consulting a doctor.
Can I Take Iodine with Autoimmune Thyroiditis
Iodine-containing preparations are prescribed only in confirmed deficiency. Independent intake of supplements, including biologically active ones, may worsen the course of the disease. Excessive iodine consumption can enhance thyroid dysfunction and provoke fluctuations in hormone levels.
What Can Be Eaten with Autoimmune Thyroiditis
The diet should be balanced, with sufficient amounts of protein, fiber, healthy fats, and trace elements. It is advisable to include in the daily menu:
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sea fish (salmon, mackerel, hake, cod);
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eggs;
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turkey, chicken fillet, lean beef;
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fermented dairy products without added sugar (kefir, natural yogurt, ryazhenka);
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legumes (lentils, chickpeas, beans) — provided they are well tolerated;
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buckwheat, brown rice, quinoa, oatmeal;
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vegetables (broccoli, zucchini, carrots, pumpkin, leafy greens);
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berries, apples, pears, citrus fruits;
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olive oil, avocado, flax seeds;
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walnuts and Brazil nuts — in moderate amounts;
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seafood as a source of selenium.
A balanced diet in AIT helps maintain stable energy levels, control body weight, and reduce the risk of micronutrient deficiencies.
What Should Not Be Eaten with Autoimmune Thyroiditis
There are no strict prohibitions, however it is advisable to limit products that may worsen metabolic balance or create an excess of iodine:
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seaweed in large quantities;
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concentrated algae and dietary supplements with high iodine content;
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white bread, rich pastries;
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sweets, confectionery products, sugary drinks;
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processed meats and fast food;
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snacks with trans fats;
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semi-finished products with a large number of food additives;
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regular alcohol consumption.
It is also not recommended to completely exclude gluten or dairy products independently without medical indications, as this may lead to deficiency of protein, iron, and B vitamins.
What Happens If Autoimmune Thyroiditis Is Not Treated
Autoimmune thyroiditis develops gradually. In the early stages, a person may not feel pronounced changes; however, without disease control, thyroid function may gradually decline.
Most often, the consequence is the development of hypothyroidism — a condition in which the body lacks thyroid hormones. This affects almost all systems:
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metabolism slows down and a tendency to gain weight appears;
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fatigue and drowsiness increase, work capacity decreases;
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the condition of the skin and hair worsens;
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cholesterol levels increase;
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heart rhythm disturbances are possible;
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women experience menstrual irregularities and difficulties with conception.
With prolonged uncontrolled hypothyroidism, the risk of cardiovascular complications, anemia, and cognitive disorders increases. In severe cases, myxedema may develop — a rare but dangerous condition. It should be noted separately that in pregnant women, untreated hypothyroidism may affect the course of pregnancy and fetal development.
That is why monitoring thyroid function is fundamentally important. Timely diagnosis and proper therapy make it possible to avoid these complications.
How Long Do People Live with Hashimoto’s Disease
Hashimoto’s disease is one of the forms of autoimmune thyroiditis. This diagnosis itself does not reduce life expectancy provided timely control and properly selected therapy.
If thyroid hormone levels are maintained within normal limits, risks to the cardiovascular system, nervous system, and metabolism are minimized. In such a case, a person can live as long as people without this diagnosis.
The prognosis is influenced by:
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regular TSH monitoring;
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adherence to recommendations regarding medication intake;
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the presence of concomitant diseases;
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lifestyle and nutrition.
The main condition is not to ignore the disease. With a stable hormonal background, Hashimoto’s disease does not limit physical activity, work capacity, or social life. Thus, life expectancy is determined not by the diagnosis itself, but by how timely and systematically thyroid function is controlled.
The information in the article is provided for informational purposes only and is not a guide to self-diagnosis and treatment. If you experience symptoms of the disease, you should consult a doctor.
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