The symptoms of thyroid inflammation can vary depending on the type and severity of the inflammation. Common symptoms include thyroid pain or tenderness, throat swelling, hoarseness, fatigue, weight gain or loss, sensitivity to cold or heat, palpitations, and mood swings.
The diagnosis of thyroiditis can be established through physical examination, blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels and antibodies, and sometimes through a thyroid biopsy.
The treatment of thyroiditis depends on the cause and the symptoms. If the inflammation results in an overproduction of thyroid hormones, the doctor may suggest drugs to reduce the production. In case of underproduction of thyroid hormones, replacement therapy with thyroid hormones can be used. In some cases, anti-inflammatory drugs or surgery may be necessary.
Symptoms of thyroid inflammation can include:
- Pain and tenderness in the thyroid gland: You may experience pain or tenderness in the area where the thyroid gland sits, which is in the lower part of the neck, just below the larynx.
- Fatigue and general malaise: Thyroid inflammation can lead to exhaustion, fatigue and a general feeling of illness.
- Mood swings and emotional instability: Thyroid hormones also affect mood and mental health. People with thyroid inflammation may experience mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression or emotional instability.
- Changes in body weight: Some people may experience weight gain due to a slower metabolism, while others may experience weight loss due to a faster metabolism.
- Palpitations and irregular heartbeats
