What is Hashimoto’s Disease?

Hypothyroidism And Hashimoto's Disease

As the condition progresses, it often results in chronic damage to the thyroid, which typically leads to thyroid hormone levels in the blood dropping. This can often mean hypothyroidism, which is the medical condition referring to an underactive thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism causes symptoms such as extreme fatigue, depression, constipation, heavy periods, dry skin, loss of hair, unexplained weight gain, pale and dry skin, brittle nails, increased cold sensitivity, as well as muscle aches and stiffness. When left untreated, hypothyroidism may cause an enlarged heart or possibly heart failure.

Because of the link between Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism, many of the symptoms of hypothyroidism mentioned above, particularly sluggishness, increased sensitivity to the cold, brittle nails, and muscle aches and tenderness, often appear in Hashimoto's disease. There may also be puffiness in the face and an enlarged tongue.