Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Diagnosis, Treatment & Cost
PACE Hospitals provides advanced Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis treatment in Hyderabad, India, offering personalized care for patients with autoimmune thyroid conditions, including Hashimoto’s disease, a major cause of hypothyroidism. Our specialists ensure precise hashimoto's thyroiditis diagnosis through comprehensive evaluation, thyroid function analysis, antibody testing, and appropriate thyroiditis test investigations to determine severity and guide therapy.
Our dedicated hashimoto specialist creates tailored treatment plans focused on hormone regulation, symptom control, and long-term thyroid health monitoring.
Book an Appointment for Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Treatment
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Treatment Appointment
Why Choose PACE Hospitals for Hashimoto's Disease Treatment?
Advanced Diagnostic Facilities: Thyroid Function Tests (TSH, T3, T4), Anti-TPO & Anti-Tg Antibodies, Thyroid Ultrasound & Hormonal Evaluation
Expert Endocrinologists in Hyderabad for Comprehensive Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Management
Personalized Treatment with Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy, Autoimmune Monitoring & Long-Term Care
Affordable Hashimoto’s Treatment with Insurance & Cashless Options
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Diagnosis
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is diagnosed by evaluating thyroid function and confirming an underlying autoimmune process, supported by clinical evaluation. The diagnosis may be confirmed by evidence of immune system activity against the thyroid, with imaging used only when structural assessment is needed. An endocrinologist considers the following before selecting the appropriate Hashimoto’s diagnostic tests:
- Medical history
- Physical examination
Medical history
The medical history generally includes a gradual onset of hypothyroid symptoms, possible neck fullness or enlargement, and a personal or family history of autoimmune disease. Symptoms often develop slowly over the years and may worsen over time. It includes the following:
- Is there persistent fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, or hair loss?
- Has neck swelling, fullness, or thyroid enlargement been noticed?
- Is there a personal history of autoimmune disease?
- Is there any family history of thyroid disease or autoimmune disorders?
- Have symptoms shown a gradual onset with progressive worsening over time?
Physical examination
On physical examination, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may present with an enlarged, firm, or irregular thyroid gland due to chronic inflammation. Over time, features of reduced thyroid activity can appear, including dry skin, facial puffiness, coarse hair, and slowed reflexes. These findings reflect the gradual autoimmune damage to the thyroid and help support the clinical diagnosis when correlated with history and investigations.
Diagnostic evaluation of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Depending upon the medical history and physical examination, the endocrinologist may recommend diagnostic testing to confirm Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. The following are the Hashimoto's thyroiditis tests:
- Blood tests
- Free T4 (thyroxine)
- Free T3 (triiodothyronine)
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
- Anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies
- Anti-thyroglobulin (anti-TG) antibody test
- Imaging test
- Thyroid ultrasound
Blood tests
- Free T4 (thyroxine): The amount of free thyroxine in the blood, which is the part of thyroid hormone that is not bound to proteins and can enter tissues to produce its effects, is measured by a Free T4 test. It is generally more accurate than measuring total T4 because it reflects the hormone that the body can actually use. When hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is suspected, this test is used in combination with other thyroid tests to assess the thyroid gland's functioning. In Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the immune system gradually damages the thyroid, which can lead to lower-than-normal free T4 levels. This indicates decreased hormone production, which supports the diagnosis when evaluated with TSH and antibody results.
- Free T3 (triiodothyronine): The amount of active thyroid hormone that is not bound to proteins and can enter cells to affect metabolism is measured by a free T3 (triiodothyronine) test. This test helps to assess thyroid function and can help to find an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) when levels are below normal, which can happen in thyroiditis, like Hashimoto's disease, where the thyroid produces fewer hormones. A low Free T3 level combined with other abnormal thyroid tests supports the finding of decreased thyroid activity due to autoimmune damage, even though Free T3 is less frequently used than TSH and Free T4 in the diagnosis of hypothyroidism. To obtain a comprehensive picture of the thyroid's functioning, free T3 results are interpreted when combined with TSH and free T4.
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): A Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) test is a standard blood test that measures the TSH, which is a hormone that the pituitary gland produces, regulating thyroid activity. It is usually the first thyroid test ordered when evaluating thyroid function because it helps detect whether the thyroid is underactive or overactive. In conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, where the thyroid is progressively damaged by autoimmune inflammation and becomes less able to make thyroid hormones, the pituitary gland often produces higher levels of TSH to try to stimulate the thyroid, so elevated TSH is a key indicator of hypothyroidism caused by Hashimoto’s. Doctors interpret TSH results together with Free T4 and thyroid antibody tests to confirm the diagnosis of Hashimoto’s and guide treatment decisions.
- Anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies: A test for anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO) measures how many antibodies against the thyroid peroxidase enzyme are circulating in the blood. Thyroid peroxidase is an enzyme that the thyroid uses to make thyroid hormones, and when the immune system mistakenly targets it, this produces anti-TPO antibodies. High levels of anti-TPO antibodies are a strong sign of autoimmune thyroid disease, particularly Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and are present in most people with Hashimoto ’s-related hypothyroidism. This test is used by clinicians to help confirm that the cause of a person’s hypothyroidism is an autoimmune attack on the thyroid.
- Anti-thyroglobulin (anti-TG) antibody test: A thyroglobulin antibody (anti-TG) test measures the level of antibodies directed against thyroglobulin, a protein the thyroid gland uses to make thyroid hormones. The presence of these antibodies can be a sign of autoimmune damage to the thyroid, and they may be measured when thyroiditis, such as Hashimoto's disease, is suspected. In the context of Hashimoto's, a positive anti-TG result supports the diagnosis of autoimmune thyroiditis, often alongside other findings like elevated TSH and anti-TPO antibodies.
Imaging test
- Thyroid ultrasound: A thyroid ultrasound is a radiation-free, painless imaging procedure that creates images of the thyroid gland in the neck using sound waves. To check the thyroid's size, shape, and structure, a handheld transducer is moved over the skin after gel has been applied to the neck. Thyroiditis, or inflammation of the thyroid gland, may be indicated by abnormal ultrasound findings. An ultrasound can identify changes like thyroid enlargement or an irregular appearance caused by inflammation in conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Although a thyroid ultrasound alone does not diagnose Hashimoto’s, it helps doctors evaluate structural abnormalities and interpret blood test results as part of the overall assessment.
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Differential Diagnosis
Differential diagnosis of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis involves considering other conditions that can cause hypothyroidism or abnormal thyroid function tests and may present with symptoms similar to Hashimoto’s disease. The following are some conditions that can mimic or overlap with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis:
- Euthyroid sick syndrome
- Goiter
- Graves disease
- Lithium-induced goitre
- Toxic nodular goitre
- Nontoxic goiter
- Hypopituitarism (panhypopituitarism)Polyglandular autoimmune syndrome type 1
- Polyglandular autoimmune syndrome type 2
- Thyroid cancer (lymphoma)
- De Quervain’s (or subacute) thyroiditis (DQT)
- Postpartum thyroiditis
- Euthyroid sick syndrome: Euthyroid sick syndrome occurs when thyroid blood tests show abnormal results during a serious illness, but there is no actual thyroid disease. The thyroid gland is not damaged, but the levels of thyroid hormones may be low or changed. This condition can look like hypothyroidism, so it needs to be distinguished from Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
- Goiter: A goitre is an abnormal growth of the thyroid gland that can happen when thyroid hormone levels are normal, higher, or lower than normal. Goitre is taken into consideration in the differential diagnosis of Hashimoto's thyroiditis since it can be brought on by inflammation, thyroid nodules, autoimmune thyroid disorders, or iodine imbalance. Although chronic autoimmune inflammation from Hashimoto's disease frequently results in goitre, goitre can also occur without autoimmune disease, leading to additional testing. Tests for thyroid function and antibodies aid in differentiating Hashimoto 's-related goitre from other conditions.
- Graves disease: Graves' disease is a chronic autoimmune thyroid disease that frequently results in a diffuse goitre and excessive function of the thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). It is included in the differential diagnosis of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis due to both being autoimmune thyroid disorders that may be associated with thyroid enlargement. But while Hashimoto's disease usually results in hypothyroidism, Graves disease raises thyroid hormone levels. Tests for thyroid function and antibodies aid in differentiating Hashimoto's from Graves' disease.
- Lithium-induced goitre: Lithium, a drug frequently used to treat bipolar disorder, can interfere with normal thyroid hormone production, which can result in lithium-induced goitre. The thyroid gland may enlarge as a result of this interference, which could result in hypothyroidism and symptoms similar to those associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. It is included in the differential diagnosis of Hashimoto's because the thyroid dysfunction is drug-induced instead of autoimmune. A history of lithium use and the absence of thyroid antibodies help differentiate it from Hashimoto's disease.
- Toxic nodular goitre: A thyroid disorder known as toxic nodular goitre causes hyperthyroidism when one or more nodules overproduce thyroid hormone. It leads to thyroid enlargement and abnormal thyroid function tests. Like Hashimoto's, toxic nodular goitre is not an autoimmune condition, but it generally manifests as elevated thyroid hormone levels with suppressed TSH. Hormone tests and thyroid imaging help in differentiating it from Hashimoto's disease. Toxic goitre causes suppressed TSH and elevated thyroid hormone levels, which distinguishes it from nontoxic goitre.
- Nontoxic goiter: An enlargement of the thyroid gland with normal thyroid hormone levels is called a nontoxic goitre. Because thyroid enlargement can be a symptom of both conditions, it is considered in the differential diagnosis of Hashimoto's thyroiditis. A nontoxic goitre, in contrast to Hashimoto's, is usually associated with the absence of thyroid antibodies and is not brought on by autoimmune inflammation. Neck pressure or swelling, rather than metabolic effects, is the primary cause of symptoms.
- Hypopituitarism (panhypopituitarism): Hypopituitarism (panhypopituitarism) is a condition in which the pituitary gland is not able to produce one or more of its hormones, including thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). This causes secondary hypothyroidism, where thyroid hormone levels are low despite a structurally normal thyroid gland. Unlike Hashimoto's, hypopituitarism is due to pituitary dysfunction rather than autoimmune thyroid disease, and thyroid antibodies are absent.
- Polyglandular autoimmune syndrome type 1: The rare inherited autoimmune condition known as polyglandular autoimmune syndrome type 1 (PAS-1) typically begins to appear in childhood. It resembles Hashimoto's thyroiditis and usually affects the parathyroid glands, adrenal glands (Addison's disease), and mucocutaneous tissues. Thyroid involvement is less common. Multiple endocrine gland failures are part of the genetic condition.
- Polyglandular autoimmune syndrome type 2: Polyglandular autoimmune syndrome type 2 (PAS-2) is more common and typically begins in adulthood. It usually includes autoimmune adrenal insufficiency along with autoimmune thyroid disease, like Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves disease, and sometimes type 1 diabetes. Unlike PAS-1, PAS-2 is not inherited in a simple genetic pattern, and thyroid disease is a major component.
- Thyroid cancer (lymphoma): Thyroid lymphoma is an extremely rare type of cancer that develops from the thyroid gland's lymphoid tissue. It usually appears as a painless, rapidly expanding neck mass and can result in compressive symptoms like breathing or difficulty swallowing. Long-term Hashimoto's patients are more likely to develop it. It can be differentiated from simple Hashimoto's disease by rapid thyroid enlargement and systemic symptoms.
- De Quervain’s (or subacute) thyroiditis (DQT): Subacute (De Quervain) thyroiditis is part of the differential diagnosis for Hashimoto's thyroiditis because both conditions cause inflammation of the thyroid and can lead to abnormal levels of thyroid hormones. Subacute thyroiditis is frequently associated with cervical pain, thyroid tenderness, and post-viral illness symptoms, with thyroid dysfunction usually being temporary. On the other hand, Hashimoto's thyroiditis is a long-lasting autoimmune disease that is usually not painful and causes hypothyroidism to get worse over time. These clinical characteristics and the progression of the illness assist in differentiating the two conditions.
- Postpartum thyroiditis: Women can get postpartum thyroiditis, which is a type of thyroid inflammation, within the first year after giving birth. It usually causes a temporary hyperthyroid phase followed by a hypothyroid phase. Many women go back to normal thyroid function over time. Like Hashimoto's, it is an autoimmune thyroid disorder, but it is only associated with pregnancy and the postpartum period, and it is usually temporary rather than chronic. The interval after childbirth and the way hormones change can help differentiate postpartum thyroiditis from chronic autoimmune hypothyroidism because symptoms and thyroid test abnormalities can resemble Hashimoto's.
Goals of therapy for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
The major goals of treating Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are to maintain normal thyroid hormone levels, improve overall health and quality of life, prevent complications of hypothyroidism, and control symptoms. It consists of:
- To keep the body's thyroid hormone levels in a normal range.
- To reduce hypothyroidism symptoms like fatigue and cold intolerance.
- To prevent conditions caused by constantly low thyroid hormone levels.
- To ensure routine thyroid function monitoring so that treatment can be modified as needed over time.
Get Medical Second Opinion for Hashimoto’s Disease Treatment for Better Clarification
At PACE Hospitals, we are committed to providing our patients with the best possible care, and that includes offering second medical opinions with super specialists for treatment or surgery. We recommend everyone to get an expert advance medical second opinion, before taking decision for your treatment or surgery.
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Treatment
There is no treatment to stop the autoimmune process itself in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Management focuses on relieving symptoms, maintaining normal thyroid hormone levels, and monitoring thyroid function over time. It includes:
- Non-pharmacological treatment
- Pharmacological treatment
- Surgical treatment
Non-pharmacological treatment
Non-pharmacological management of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis focuses on monitoring and supportive lifestyle measures rather than curing the disease. It includes:
- Frequent blood testing for thyroid function helps in the early detection of changes in thyroid hormone levels and the progression of the disease.
- Maintaining a balanced diet that provides adequate iodine helps the thyroid function normally and prevents iodine-related thyroid problems.
- Advised regular exercise, a healthy diet, and enough sleep are examples of healthy lifestyle habits that help control fatigue and general well-being.
- Patient education and long-term follow-up are important to understand the chronic nature of the disease and to recognise early symptom changes.
Pharmacological treatment
Pharmacological treatment of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is aimed at correcting low thyroid hormone levels resulting from thyroid gland damage. If thyroid hormone levels are normal (euthyroid Hashimoto’s), treatment may not be needed, but regular monitoring of thyroid function is recommended. The dose of medication is adjusted based on TSH levels, symptoms, age, and other medical conditions, and blood tests are used periodically to ensure proper control. It includes:
- Hormone replacement therapy: When Hashimoto's thyroiditis results in low thyroid hormone levels, hormone replacement therapy is used to supply the hormones that the thyroid is no longer able to produce properly. This therapy helps in relieving symptoms, avoiding hypothyroidism complications, and bringing hormone levels back to normal. To maintain appropriate hormone balance, treatment is usually long-term and involves frequent monitoring.
Surgical treatment
Surgery is not a routine treatment for Hashimoto's thyroiditis. It is considered only in selected cases where complications such as a large goitre or suspected thyroid cancer are present. It is:
- Thyroidectomy: Thyroidectomy is a surgical removal of the thyroid gland, which is not a common treatment for Hashimoto's thyroiditis; rather, it is reserved for rare, specific indications. It can be done when there is a suspicion or confirmation of thyroid cancer or lymphoma, which is more common in long-term Hashimoto's disease, or when chronic inflammation results in a very large goitre that compresses the airway or the swallowing mechanism. Because the gland is unable to produce hormones after a thyroidectomy, patients need thyroid hormone replacement therapy for the rest of their lives.
✅Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Prognosis
The prognosis of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is generally good with appropriate management. Most people can maintain normal thyroid hormone levels and live a normal life, although the condition is chronic and usually lifelong, and regular monitoring is needed to manage hypothyroidism and prevent complications.
Hashimoto’s Disease Treatment Cost in Hyderabad, India
The cost of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis treatment in Hyderabad generally ranges from ₹15,000 to ₹1,80,000 per year (approx. US $180 – US $2,165).
The exact cost of treatment varies depending on the severity of hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone levels, presence of goiter or nodules, frequency of endocrinology consultations, and need for long-term medication and monitoring. Additional factors include diagnostic investigations (thyroid function tests, antibody testing, ultrasound), associated autoimmune conditions, and hospital facilities — including cashless treatment options, TPA corporate tie-ups, and assistance with medical insurance wherever applicable.
Cost Breakdown According to Type of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Treatment
- Medical Management with Thyroid Hormone Replacement – ₹15,000 – ₹40,000 per year (US $180 – US $480)
- Endocrinology Consultation & Regular Monitoring – ₹20,000 – ₹60,000 per year (US $240 – US $720)
- Thyroid Function Tests & Antibody Panels – ₹10,000 – ₹35,000 per year (US $120 – US $420)
- Hashimoto’s With Goiter / Nodule Evaluation – ₹40,000 – ₹1,20,000 (US $480 – US $1,445)
- Surgical Treatment (If Thyroidectomy Required) – ₹80,000 – ₹1,80,000 (US $960 – US $2,165)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Does Hashimoto's go away if the thyroid is removed?
No, removing the thyroid does not make Hashimoto's thyroiditis go away because it is an autoimmune disease of the immune system, not just a problem with the thyroid gland. Thyroidectomy can get rid of thyroid-related symptoms like goitre or cancer risk, but the autoimmune tendency stays the same, and people who have had their thyroid surgically removed are required to continue hormonal medication for the rest of their lives.
Which Is the best hospital for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Treatment in Hyderabad, India?
PACE Hospitals, Hyderabad, is a trusted centre for the diagnosis and long-term management of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and other thyroid disorders, offering comprehensive endocrine care.
We have highly experienced endocrinologists, internal medicine specialists, radiologists, and laboratory teams who follow evidence-based protocols to manage thyroid hormone imbalance, monitor autoimmune activity, and prevent complications related to untreated hypothyroidism.
We provide best services including advanced thyroid function testing, autoimmune antibody panels, high-resolution ultrasound imaging, and long-term follow-up programs, PACE Hospitals ensures safe, effective, and patient-centred thyroid care — supported by cashless insurance facilities, TPA corporate tie-ups, and seamless documentation assistance.
How does pregnancy affect Hashimoto’s diagnosis?
Pregnancy can change the thyroid hormone needs and test results, which can make it more difficult to diagnose Hashimoto's thyroiditis. During pregnancy, the body requires more thyroid hormones, which can change TSH and thyroid hormone levels and make it challenging to diagnose. Women with Hashimoto's often need close monitoring during pregnancy because their thyroid levels may change and need to be altered to protect both maternal and fetal health.
Can thyroid cancer be confused with Hashimoto’s?
Yes. Thyroid enlargement or nodules can be caused by both Hashimoto's thyroiditis and thyroid cancer, and they may look similar on initial evaluation. An ultrasound of the thyroid and, if necessary, a fine-needle aspiration biopsy are used to differentiate thyroid cancer from autoimmune thyroid inflammation. These tests help in the diagnosis of benign or malignant thyroid nodules.
Can lifestyle changes replace medication in Hashimoto’s?
No, lifestyle changes like exercise, a balanced diet and stress management cannot replace thyroid hormone medication when hypothyroidism is present. Because Hashimoto's disease reduces the thyroid's function, which leads to a reduction in the production of thyroid hormones, thyroid hormone replacement therapy is required to restore normal hormone levels. Lifestyle changes may improve overall health, but they cannot resolve hormone deficiency.
What Is the cost of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Treatment at PACE Hospitals, Hyderabad?
At PACE Hospitals, Hyderabad, the cost of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis treatment typically ranges from ₹12,000 to ₹1,60,000 and above per year (approx. US $145 – US $1,930), making it a cost-effective option for specialised endocrine care compared to others. However, the final cost depends on:
- Severity of thyroid hormone imbalance
- Frequency of thyroid function monitoring
- Presence of goiter or thyroid nodules
- Requirement for ultrasound or biopsy
- Specialist consultations and follow-up visits
- Associated autoimmune conditions
- Long-term medication needs
For mild hypothyroidism managed with routine medication and monitoring, costs remain toward the lower end, while patients requiring surgery or complex evaluation may fall toward the higher range.
After a detailed endocrine evaluation, laboratory assessment, and imaging review, our specialists provide a personalised treatment plan and transparent cost estimate, aligned with hormone balance goals, symptom control, and long-term thyroid health.
Can Hashimoto's thyroiditis be cured?
No, there is no cure for Hashimoto's thyroiditis because the immune system keeps attacking the thyroid gland. This damage often causes permanent hypothyroidism over time. The autoimmune process cannot be prevented; however, thyroid hormone levels are usually maintained within the normal range, symptoms managed, and complications prevented through long-term management and consistent monitoring.
What is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis?
An autoimmune disorder which damages and inflames the thyroid gland by making antibodies that attack the gland itself is called Hashimoto's thyroiditis. This damage stops the thyroid from making enough hormones over time, which can lead to hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid). A thyroid hormone deficiency can impact many organs and systems because thyroid hormones help regulate how the body uses energy.
Is Hashimoto's thyroiditis an autoimmune disease?
Yes, Hashimoto's thyroiditis is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterised by the immune system mistakenly targeting the thyroid gland. This damage, caused by the immune system, causes long-term inflammation of the thyroid, which often leads to less thyroid hormone production (hypothyroidism) over time.
Can a thyroid ultrasound detect Hashimoto's thyroiditis?
Thyroid ultrasound is a test that looks at the shape, size, and structure of the thyroid gland. It may identify problems like an enlarged thyroid, inflammation, or an uneven texture, which can happen with thyroiditis. The ultrasound does not diagnose Hashimoto's thyroiditis on its own, but these results can help with the evaluation of the condition. A diagnosis is made by interpreting the results in combination with clinical findings and blood tests.
Can Hashimoto's thyroiditis be painless?
Yes, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is most often painless, even though it involves chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland. Many people may have abnormal thyroid function or an enlarged thyroid (goitre) without experiencing neck pain or tenderness. Rather than local pain, symptoms like fatigue, cold intolerance, or weight gain are typically related to changes in thyroid hormone levels. The fact that Hashimoto's thyroiditis is painless is an important feature that helps differentiate it from other inflammatory thyroid conditions.
Can one have Hashimoto's with normal TSH, T3, and T4?
Yes. People with Hashimoto's disease can have an autoimmune process even when their thyroid hormone levels (TSH, T3, and T4) are still normal because the gland isn't yet underactive. In these situations, doctors might diagnose the condition based on high levels of thyroid antibodies and keep an eye on thyroid function regularly, since hormone levels may decline over time.
Does Hashimoto’s thyroiditis affect life expectancy?
Hashimoto’s disease itself does not generally shorten life expectancy when it is properly treated and monitored. With thyroid hormone replacement and regular follow-up care, the majority of those with the condition have normal life expectancies. Treatment significantly lowers the risks of major health issues that could impact health outcomes from untreated Hashimoto's hypothyroidism. Maintaining general health and preventing complications are made easier with appropriate therapy and routine monitoring.
How do thyroid antibody tests help in the diagnosis of Hashimoto’s?
Antibodies produced by the immune system when it mistakenly targets the thyroid gland are measured by thyroid antibody tests. Because the majority of patients with Hashimoto's disease have elevated thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies in their blood, these tests assist physicians in determining whether thyroid dysfunction is being caused by an autoimmune thyroid disorder like Hashimoto's. The diagnosis of autoimmune thyroid disease is supported by elevated antibody levels, abnormal hormone tests, and clinical symptoms.
How is Hashimoto’s differentiated from Graves’ disease?
Hashimoto's is differentiated from Graves' disease, where it causes hyperthyroidism and is connected to TSH receptor antibodies, and Hashimoto's disease usually results in hypothyroidism and is linked to thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies. Both conditions are autoimmune. Hashimoto's disease can be identified by blood tests that show high TSH and low thyroid hormone levels, whereas low TSH and high hormone levels diagnose Graves' disease. To further differentiate between the two conditions, doctors might use an ultrasound or radioactive iodine uptake.
Will a person with Hashimoto’s need thyroid medication permanently?
Yes, a person with Hashimoto's disease requires long-term thyroid medication. The thyroid gland can become permanently damaged by Hashimoto's disease, which lowers the gland's potential to generate enough thyroid hormones. Continuous thyroid hormone replacement is required to maintain normal hormone levels and avoid symptoms when hypothyroidism develops.
