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.)

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