What to do about hypothyroidism caused by Hashimoto's thyroiditis
Disease description:
Recently, I have been feeling physically weak; even minor activities leave me without much energy. After visiting a doctor and undergoing tests, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism caused by Hashimoto's thyroiditis. May I ask, what should I do now?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Hypothyroidism caused by Hashimoto's thyroiditis is mainly treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy, antithyroid medications, iodine-131 internal radiation therapy, and thyroidectomy.
1. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy: The commonly used medication is levothyroxine sodium tablets. This treatment corrects low T4 levels and improves hypothyroidism symptoms by supplementing exogenous thyroid hormones. The dosage needs to be adjusted based on monitoring results of serum TSH levels and is generally required for lifelong administration.
2. Antithyroid medications: Such as methimazole tablets and propylthiouracil tablets. These medications control disease progression by inhibiting thyroid cell destruction in the immune response and are suitable for patients with mild hyperthyroidism in the early stages and for preoperative preparation.
3. Iodine-131 internal radiation therapy: This treatment utilizes iodine uptake by thyroid cells followed by the release of beta radiation to induce cellular damage, thereby achieving therapeutic effects. It is suitable for patients who cannot tolerate surgery or are allergic to medications.
