What is Hashimoto’s Disease?

Diagnosis

Doctors can run a series of tests including a hormone or an antibody test to diagnose (or disprove) Hashimoto's disease in a patient. Both hormone and antibody tests are blood tests, though they look for different indicators in the body. Hormone tests check the amount of hormones the thyroid and pituitary glands are producing. The thyroid hormone levels will be low if the thyroid gland is underactive, but the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone could be elevated as the pituitary gland is trying to stimulate the thyroid into production.

Antibody tests are used because Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune disorder, and due to this, abnormal antibodies are produced. An antibody blood test can confirm there are antibodies against thyroid peroxidase, also termed TPO antibodies, which is an enzyme typically detected in the thyroid gland. Thyroid peroxidase plays an integral role in the body's production of thyroid hormones. This particular test is key because detecting an underactive thyroid in other ways was next to impossible until symptoms advance. However, this test allows doctors to detect thyroid disorders and related issues, including Hashimoto's disease, much earlier, even if symptoms have not yet appeared.

Treatment

Treatment for Hashimoto's disease depends on each case, but typically involves either observation or a wait-based approach, or the use of medication. Doctors typically employ the observation method of there is no evidence of a hormone deficiency and the patient's thyroid appears to be functioning as it should. Otherwise, medications are typically prescribed, which patients will likely require for the rest of their life. The medication typically prescribed is a synthetic hormone known as levothyroxine.

It is important to note some other medications, supplements, and food can affect the body's ability to absorb levothyroxine. Though waiting at least four hours after taking other medications or supplements can eliminate potential interactions, patients should still speak to their doctors if they are taking any supplements or other medications. Examples include iron supplements and multivitamins with iron, calcium supplements, medication for ulcers, and antacids with aluminum hydroxide. Individuals who consume large amounts of soy products or follow a high-fiber diet should also speak with their doctor about medication for Hashimoto's disease.