Information and support I am Exploring thyroid conditions Thyroiditis overview Thyroiditis Content overview Viral or subacute thyroiditis Postpartum thyroiditis Drug-induced thyroiditis Autoimmune thyroiditis Common symptoms of hypothyroidism Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism Further information Thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland. There are four main types Viral or subacute thyroiditis Caused by: an unidentified viral infection Symptoms: enlarged, usually very painful thyroid gland, flu-like symptoms, hyperthyroidism sometimes followed by hypothyroidism Diagnosis: physical examination and blood tests Treatment: steroids in severe cases, anti-inflammatory medications (e.g. ibuprofen) although in mild cases no treatment may be necessary Outcome: usually complete recovery within a few months; rarely levothyroxine is given if the hypothyroidism is permanent Postpartum thyroiditis Occurs: usually in the first six months after childbirth but may present as depression Symptoms: swollen thyroid gland, not usually painful, hyperthyroidism sometimes followed by hypothyroidism Diagnosis: physical examination and blood tests Treatment: beta blockers, if necessary, during the hyperthyroid phase, levothyroxine during the hypothyroid phase Outcome: usually complete recovery within a few months; otherwise levothyroxine is given if the hypothyroidism is permanent (estimated 1 in 5-10 people). It often returns in subsequent pregnancies; you should therefore be tested after any further pregnancies Drug-induced thyroiditis Cause: certain drugs may cause thyroiditis, including amiodarone, lithium, sunitinib, axitinib, interferons, pembrolizumab, nivolumab and ipilimumab Diagnosis: physical examination and blood tests Treatment: in many cases the thyroiditis resolves itself without treatment. With other drugs such as amiodarone, steroid therapy may be necessary Autoimmune thyroiditis Caused by: an autoimmune process which can be either temporary due to the thyroid gland releasing stored thyroid hormone (silent thyroiditis) which is usually followed by recovery to normal function or permanent resulting in loss of thyroid hormone production (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) Symptoms: hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism and sometimes an enlarged thyroid (goitre) if a silent thyroiditis or hypothyroidism if Hashimoto’s thyroiditis Diagnosis: blood tests Treatment: levothyroxine for life Common symptoms of hypothyroidism • General tiredness • Increased awareness of the cold • Dry skin and hair • Hoarse voice • Muscle weakness • A small increase in weight • Slow speech, movements and thoughts • Low mood or depression Common symptoms of hyperthyroidism • Weight loss despite an increased appetite• Palpitations• Sweating and heat intolerance• Tiredness • Nervousness and irritability • Shakiness • A rapid pulse • Mood swings or aggressive behaviour Further information Read our guide to thyroiditis Find information about treatments for thyroid disorders Living with thyroid conditions Useful resources (films, patient stories, articles, events, phone support etc.) Please help us help others With your support we can help people to live better with thyroid disease. Your donations also fund vital research to improve treatments. Please consider making a donation or becoming a member Donate to BTF Become a BTF member Manage Cookie Preferences Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility