Hashimotos vs. Hypothyroid
If you’ve ever searched for answers about thyroid disorders, you’ve probably come across two words, often used interchangeably: Hashimoto’s disease and hypothyroidism. Though closely related, these conditions have distinct characteristics and implications for your health. Understanding the difference between them is important for managing symptoms and optimizing your healthcare plan and lifestyle if you suffer from one or both of these health problems.
Understanding Hypothyroidism
What is Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a broad medical condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland, located at the base of your neck, is responsible for releasing hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, digestion, and many other bodily functions. When it becomes underactive, these processes slow down, leading to various symptoms.
Causes of Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism can be caused by several factors, including:
Hashimoto’s Disease: This is the most common cause, as the disease causes the immune system to attack the thyroid gland.
Radiation Therapy: The types of radiation used in cancer treatments, can damage the thyroid, leading to hypothyroidism.
Thyroid Surgery: Removing part or all of the thyroid can lead to hypothyroidism.
Medications: Certain drugs can interfere with thyroid hormone production.
Iodine Deficiency: This is more common globally and can lead to an underactive thyroid.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Common signs of hypothyroidism include:
Fatigue and lethargy
Weight gain
Dry skin and hair
Cold intolerance
Depression
Constipation
Irregular menstrual cycles
These symptoms can develop slowly, making hypothyroidism difficult to diagnose in its early stages.
What is Hashimoto’s Disease?
Hashimoto’s Disease Overview
Hashimoto’s disease, also known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to chronic inflammation and, over time, hypothyroidism. It is the most common cause of hypothyroidism, especially in women.
Hashimoto’s Disease Symptoms
The symptoms of Hashimoto’s can overlap with those of hypothyroidism, but they also include:
Goiter (an enlarged thyroid gland)
Difficulty swallowing
Hoarseness in the voice
Body aches and joint pain
Menstrual irregularities
Mood swings and depression
As the disease progresses, the thyroid gland becomes less capable of producing hormones, leading to a gradual onset of hypothyroid symptoms.
What is the Difference Between Hashimoto’s and Hypothyroidism?
While hypothyroidism refers to an underactive thyroid gland, Hashimoto’s disease is the underlying cause of hypothyroidism in many cases. The main difference lies in the cause:
Hypothyroidism can occur due to various factors, including iodine deficiency, radiation, or surgical removal of the thyroid.
Hashimoto’s Disease specifically involves an autoimmune attack on the thyroid, leading to its gradual destruction and resulting in hypothyroidism.
Diagnosing Hashimoto’s Disease
To diagnose Hashimoto’s, specific lab tests are required to detect thyroid antibodies such as TPO (thyroid peroxidase) and thyroglobulin antibodies. These tests help differentiate Hashimoto’s from other forms of hypothyroidism, where antibodies might not be present.
Managing and Treating Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s Disease
Hypothyroidism Treatment
Treatment for hypothyroidism typically involves thyroid hormone replacement therapy. The most common medication is levothyroxine, a synthetic form of the hormone thyroxine (T4). This helps restore normal hormone levels and alleviate symptoms. However, more pure treatments, like my favorite, Tirosint Sol, can provide more effective treatment without the use of additives. This medication boosts the efficacy of treatment by not introducing additives to the body that the immune system may react negatively to. It also has been shown to boost absorption of the medication, allowing patients to stay on a consistent and lower dose for longer compared with levothyroxine.
Hashimoto’s Disease Treatment
In addition to hormone replacement, managing Hashimoto’s may require addressing the autoimmune aspect of the disease. This includes:
Dietary Changes: Reducing inflammatory foods like gluten and dairy can help manage symptoms.
Supplements: Vitamin D, selenium, and iodine can support thyroid function.
Addressing Infections: Underlying infections can exacerbate autoimmune conditions and may need to be treated.
Can Hypothyroidism Be Cured?
While hypothyroidism cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with proper medication and lifestyle changes. Hashimoto’s disease, being an autoimmune condition, requires ongoing management to prevent further thyroid damage. A huge part of the treatment that I provide to my patients is centered around what we can do to not only medicate the body with pharmaceuticals but actually positively change our lifestyles to help our bodies work better with our treatment plans. This includes support with dietary changes and also a regimen of natural supplements that can help boost your thyroid treatment plan.
Living with Hashimoto’s Disease and Hypothyroidism
Understanding the difference between Hashimoto’s disease and hypothyroidism empowers you to take control of your thyroid health. Advocate for comprehensive testing, including antibody levels, and work with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Note: Coronavirus and Hypothyroidism
Recent studies have suggested a potential link between coronavirus and hypothyroidism. The virus may exacerbate thyroid dysfunction in some patients, highlighting the importance of monitoring thyroid health during and after COVID-19 infection. Many of my patients suffer from long COVID and may benefit from having labs that will help us understand the link between COVID-19 and hypothyroidism or hashimoto’s.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re dealing with hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s disease, staying informed and proactive is key. By recognizing the symptoms, seeking proper diagnosis, and following a tailored treatment plan, you can manage your thyroid health effectively.
If you have questions or need guidance on managing your thyroid condition, don’t hesitate to reach out to me!
Want to learn more? Listen to me explain in detail on the Aging Unraveled Podcast with Dr. Lori.
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