Thyroid inflammation, also called thyroiditis, can be confusing and sometimes scary. The thyroid is a small gland in the front of your neck that looks like a butterfly.
Even though it’s small, it has a big job. It helps control your metabolism, energy levels, and many other important body functions.
When the thyroid becomes inflamed, it can cause a variety of symptoms. Some people might just feel a little tired, while others may experience bigger problems with hormones and how their body works.
There are several common reasons why thyroid inflammation happens, and understanding them can help people know what to look out for and how to manage it.
One of the most common causes is an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. In this condition, the immune system, which usually protects the body, starts attacking the thyroid by mistake. This causes the gland to swell and stop working properly over time.
If you have family members with thyroid problems, you might be more likely to get this too. Scientists have found that certain genes can make the immune system more likely to attack the thyroid.
Sometimes, a virus like the flu or a cold can trigger thyroid inflammation. This type is called subacute thyroiditis.
When your immune system fights off the virus, it can accidentally hurt the thyroid. This kind of inflammation usually causes pain in the neck, fever, and feeling very tired. Most people get better after a few weeks, but it can be very uncomfortable.
Women who have recently given birth can also get thyroid inflammation, known as postpartum thyroiditis. During pregnancy, the immune system slows down to protect the baby. After the baby is born, the immune system speeds up again, which can cause it to attack the thyroid.
This condition can cause the thyroid to work too much at first, then slow down later. It may lead to tiredness, weight changes, and mood swings. Women with a history of thyroid issues or other immune system problems are more likely to get this.
Some medications can cause thyroiditis as a side effect. For example, amiodarone, a drug for heart rhythm problems, and interferon, used for hepatitis C and some cancers, can affect how the thyroid works. If you take these medicines, your doctor may check your thyroid regularly.
Exposure to radiation is another possible cause. People who get radiation therapy for head or neck cancers, or those exposed to radiation in the environment, can develop thyroid inflammation.
Radiation can damage the thyroid and affect its ability to work normally. The more radiation someone is exposed to, the higher the risk, so doctors often check thyroid function in these cases over time.
Iodine is another key factor. Your thyroid needs iodine to make hormones, but having too little or too much can cause problems. Not enough iodine can lead to an underactive thyroid, while too much can lead to inflammation or an overactive thyroid. Eating a balanced diet with the right amount of iodine can help prevent these issues.
Knowing what causes thyroid inflammation helps people catch it early and get the right treatment. Even though thyroiditis can be uncomfortable, it’s often manageable with help from a doctor. Watching for symptoms, getting regular checkups, and knowing your family history can make a big difference in staying healthy.
If you care about inflammation, please read studies about turmeric: nature’s golden answer to inflammation, and what to eat to reduce chronic Inflammation.
For more health information, please see recent studies about how a plant-based diet could help ease inflammation, and Vitamin D deficiency linked to increased inflammation.
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