De Quervain's thyroiditis (patient information)

Hashimoto's thyroiditis
Overview
What are the symptoms?
What are the causes?
Who is at highest risk?
Diagnosis
When to seek urgent medical care?
Treatment options
Where to find medical care for Hashimoto's thyroiditis?
Prevention
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Possible complications
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Furqan M M. M.B.B.S[2]

What are the symptoms of Hashimoto's thyroiditis?

The most obvious symptom of subacute thyroiditis is pain in the neck caused by a swollen and inflamed thyroid gland. Sometimes, the pain can spread (radiate) to the jaw or ears. The thyroid gland may be painful and swollen for weeks or, in rare cases, months.

Other symptoms include:

• Difficulty swallowing, hoarseness
• Fatigue, feeling weak
• Fever

The inflamed thyroid gland may release too much thyroid hormone, causing symptoms of hyperthyroidism, including:

• More frequent bowel movements
• Hair loss
• Heat intolerance
• Irregular menstrual periods in women
• Mood changes
• Nervousness
• Tremor
• Palpitations
• Sweating
• Weight loss but increased appetite

As the thyroid gland heals, it may release too little hormone, causing symptoms of hypothyroidism, including:

• Cold intolerance
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Dry skin
• Mood changes

Thyroid gland function often returns to normal. But in rare cases, hypothyroidism may be permanent.

When to seek urgent medical care

Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of subacute thyroiditis.

Where to find medical care for Hashimoto's thyroiditis

Directions to Hospitals Treating De Quervain's thyroiditis

Prevention of De Quervain's thyroiditis

There is no known way to prevent this disorder. Being aware of risk factors may allow earlier diagnosis and treatment.

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)

The outcome is usually very good. The disease stays stable for years. If it does slowly progress to thyroid hormone deficiency (hypothyroidism), it can be treated with thyroid replacement therapy.

Possible Complications

This condition can occur with other autoimmune disorders. In rare cases, thyroid cancer may develop.