Feeling Tired All the Time? It Might Not Just Be Stress.
Do you feel exhausted no matter how much you rest? Struggling with unexplained weight gain, dry skin, or hair loss? These symptoms are often brushed off as stress or aging, but they could be signs of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, a commonly overlooked autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid.
While many Indian women are familiar with thyroid problems, Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis remains largely undiagnosed—yet it’s one of the leading causes of hypothyroidism worldwide.
Let’s break it down: What is Hashimoto’s, why should you care, and when should you seek help?
What Is Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis?
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease where your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. Over time, this leads to an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), slowing down essential body functions like metabolism, energy production, and hormone regulation.
Key Fact: Unlike regular hypothyroidism, which is often caused by iodine deficiency, Hashimoto’s is triggered by immune dysfunction and inflammation.
Symptoms of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
- Unexplained weight gain (even with a healthy diet and exercise)
- Extreme fatigue and sluggishness
- Brain fog, forgetfulness, or difficulty concentrating
- Dry skin, brittle nails, and hair thinning
- Constipation and bloating
- Feeling cold all the time (even when others don’t)
- Heavy or irregular periods
- Anxiety or depression (which may be mistaken for mental health issues)
- Swelling in the neck (a possible sign of goiter)
Hashimoto’s progresses slowly over time, which is why symptoms often go unnoticed until they become severe. Here’s what to watch out for:
Myth: “Only older women get Hashimoto’s.”
Fact: It can develop at any age, including in young women in their 20s and 30s.
How Common Is Hashimoto’s in India?
Thyroid disorders are highly prevalent in India, with studies estimating that 1 in 10 Indian adults has some form of hypothyroidism. However, many cases of Hashimoto’s go undiagnosed because routine thyroid tests (like TSH) don’t always detect it.
Who’s at higher risk?
- Women (especially those aged 20-50)
- People with a family history of thyroid disorders or autoimmune diseases
- Those experiencing chronic stress
- Women with PCOS or irregular periods
- People with vitamin deficiencies (especially Vitamin D and B12)
Myth: “Hashimoto’s is rare.”
Fact: It is one of the most common causes of hypothyroidism worldwide.
How Is Hashimoto’s Diagnosed?
If you suspect Hashimoto’s, a simple blood test can help confirm it. However, many doctors only check TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone), which may not be enough. To diagnose Hashimoto’s, ask for:
- TSH Test (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone)
- Free T3 & Free T4 (to check active thyroid hormones)
- Thyroid Antibody Tests (Anti-TPO, Anti-TG) (to confirm autoimmune thyroid disease)
- Ultrasound of the Thyroid (if swelling or nodules are suspected)
Tip: If your doctor refuses to check thyroid antibodies, advocate for yourself! You have the right to comprehensive testing.
Treatment: Can Hashimoto’s Be Cured?
There is no cure for Hashimoto’s, but it can be managed effectively with the right approach. Treatment usually involves:
- Thyroid hormone replacement therapy (Levothyroxine or natural alternatives)
- Lifestyle changes (stress management, sleep, and gut health support)
- Nutrient optimization (Selenium, Zinc, Vitamin D, and Omega-3s help reduce inflammation)
- Diet modifications (some women find relief with gluten-free or anti-inflammatory diets)
Myth: “Once you start thyroid medication, you can never stop.”
Fact: Medication helps restore hormone balance, but with proper lifestyle changes, some women may lower their dosage over time.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you’re experiencing persistent fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, or irregular periods, don’t ignore it. These could be signs of an undiagnosed thyroid condition.
Take the next step:
- Book an online consultation with our thyroid specialists.
- Get the right tests done—don’t settle for incomplete thyroid screening.
- Join a community of women managing Hashimoto’s and supporting each other.
Your health isn’t just in your head—it’s real, and it deserves attention. Take control of your thyroid health today!
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