Hashimoto's Disease Specialist

What is Hashimoto’s disease?

Hashimoto's disease, also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is a condition that affects the thyroid gland. Your thyroid is located in your neck and produces a group of hormones known as thyroid hormones. These hormones primarily control your body's metabolism. 

With Hashimoto's disease, your immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the gland, affecting the production of the thyroid hormones. Many people with Hashimoto's disease ultimately develop hypothyroidism, low production of thyroid hormones.

Hashimoto's disease is common, and you may be at greater risk of developing the autoimmune condition if it runs in your family. You may also be more likely to develop Hashimoto's disease if you have a history of rheumatoid arthritis, Type 1 diabetes, or Addison's disease (an adrenal problem).

What are the symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease?

During the early stages of Hashimoto's disease, you might not have any symptoms. The development of a goiter (enlarged thyroid gland) may be the first sign indicating something is wrong with your thyroid.

As the disease progresses, you may experience other symptoms, such as:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Sensitivity to cold
• Stiff joints
• Muscle weakness
• Constipation
• Depression
• Dry skin or thinning hair
• Problems concentrating

If you have these symptoms, schedule an appointment at Fort Wayne Endocrinology.

How is Hashimoto’s disease diagnosed?

Your endocrinologist at Fort Wayne Endocrinology does a complete history and physical to diagnose Hashimoto's disease. During your visit, your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms. They also review your medical and family history.

Your provider performs a physical exam and runs lab work to check your thyroid hormone levels. Fort Wayne Endocrinology has an on-site laboratory that does all of the hormone testing.

Fort Wayne Endocrinology may also request an ultrasound to check your thyroid and look for growths that might explain your symptoms.

How is Hashimoto’s disease treated?

Fort Wayne Endocrinology customizes treatment for Hashimoto’s disease based on the severity of your symptoms, results of your lab testing, and medical history. 

If you have hypothyroidism because of your Hashimoto’s disease, your endocrinologist prescribes hormone replacement therapy to restore hormone levels. After starting hormone replacement therapy, your provider schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor your hormone levels and adjust your dose as needed.

Hashimoto’s disease is common and affects the production of the hormones that control your body’s metabolic system. For comprehensive care, call Fort Wayne Endocrinology or schedule an appointment online today.