Hashimoto's disease

Hashimoto's disease is a chronic autoimmune thyroiditis in which the immune system abnormally produces antibodies, mainly anti-TPO. This leads to progressive damage to the thyroid gland. As a consequence, permanent hypothyroidism usually develops. The condition is more common in women and symptoms can include chronic fatigue, weight gain, dry skin and hair loss.

The main factors contributing to the development of the disease include genetic predisposition, autoimmune disorders and environmental factorssuch as chronic stress or past infections. A growing body of research suggests that microbiota may influence the development of autoimmune diseases, including Hashimoto's, by affecting the immune system.

The clinical picture may include, but is not limited to:

• • persistent fatigue and sleepiness,

• • weight gain despite no change in diet,

• • feeling cold,

• • dryness of the skin and hair and hair loss,

• • constipation,

• • depressed mood.

Diagnosis is based on laboratory tests, including determination of thyroid hormone levels (TSH, FT3, FT4) and antibodies (anti-TPO, anti-TG), as well as on ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland.

Treatment usually consists of continuous intake of levothyroxine in order to compensate for thyroid hormone deficiencies and normalise thyroid function. Supportively, an anti-inflammatory diet is recommended, often with individual consideration of possible food intolerances, as well as an adequate supply of ingredients such as selenium, zinc i vitamin D3.

Hashimoto's disease can go on for a long time without obvious symptoms, gradually leading to thyroid damage, so regular check-ups are important.