Silent ThyroiditisSymptoms, Doctors, Treatments, Advances & More
Learn About Silent Thyroiditis
Silent thyroiditis is an immune reaction of the thyroid gland. The disorder can cause hyperthyroidism, followed by hypothyroidism.
The thyroid gland is located in the neck, just above where your collarbones meet in the middle.
Lymphocytic thyroiditis; Subacute lymphocytic thyroiditis; Painless thyroiditis; Postpartum thyroiditis; Thyroiditis - silent; Hyperthyroidism - silent thyroiditis
The cause of the disease is unknown. But it is related to an attack against the thyroid by the immune system. The disease affects women more often than men.
The disease can occur in women who have just had a baby. It can also be caused by medicines such as interferon and amiodarone, and some types of chemotherapy, which affect the immune system.
The earliest symptoms result from an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). These symptoms may last for up to 3 months.
Symptoms are often mild, and may include:
- Fatigue, feeling weak
- Frequent bowel movements
- Heat intolerance
- Increased appetite
- Increased sweating
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Mood changes, such as irritability
- Muscle cramps
- Nervousness, restlessness
- Palpitations
- Weight loss
Later symptoms may be of an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), including:
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Irregular (or heavy) menstrual periods in women
- Mood changes
- Weight gain
- Cold intolerance
These symptoms can persist until the thyroid recovers normal function. The recovery of the thyroid can take many months in some people. Some people only notice the hypothyroid symptoms and do not have symptoms of hyperthyroidism to begin with.
Treatment is based on symptoms. Medicines called beta-blockers may be used to relieve rapid heart rate and excessive sweating.
Jeffrey S. Freeman DO
. Dr. Freeman is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Silent Thyroiditis. His top areas of expertise are Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young, Low Blood Sugar, and Graves Disease.
Reading Hospital Endocrinology & Diabetes Center Wyomissing
. Dr. Gabriely is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Silent Thyroiditis. His top areas of expertise are Low Blood Sugar, Hyperparathyroidism, Thyroid Cancer, and Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer.
Jerry & Kathleen Grundhofer Clinic - Diabetes & Endocrinology
Claudia Fish, MD, is an endocrinologist practicing at Intermountain Health’s Round Valley Clinic in Park City, Utah. She supports patients in Summit County, Heber Valley, and surrounding communities, treating thyroid disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and more. Her clinical interests are deeply rooted in health and nutrition, which she passionately pursues to enhance the well-being of her patients.Claudia has dedicated her career to the study and treatment of thyroid disease, osteoporosis, and diabetes. Her approach to patient care is guided by her belief that knowledge is power, ensuring that her patients are well-informed and empowered in their health journeys.Outside of her professional life, Claudia, a Buffalo, NY native enjoys running, biking, baking, entertaining, and traveling. She believes that knowledge is power, a philosophy that guides her approach to patient care.Conditions Treated: Thyroid disease:Hyperthyroidism, Hypothyroidism, NodulesPituitary DiseaseUltrasound guided biopsy of Thyroid NodulesOsteoporosisDiabetes: Type 1 Diabetes: Insulin pumpsProcedures Performed: Thyroid UltrasoundUltrasound guided Thyroid Nodule BiopsiesInjections and Infusions for Osteoporosis. Dr. Fish is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Silent Thyroiditis. Her top areas of expertise are Postmenopausal Osteoporosis, Osteoporosis, Toxic Nodular Goiter, and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D).
Silent thyroiditis often goes away on its own within 1 year. The acute phase usually ends within 3 months.
Some people develop hypothyroidism over time. They need to be treated with a medicine that replaces thyroid hormone. Regular follow-ups with a provider are recommended.
The disease is not infectious. People cannot catch the disease from you. It also is not inherited within families like some other thyroid conditions.
Contact your provider if you have symptoms of this condition.
Published Date: February 28, 2024
Published By: Sandeep K. Dhaliwal, MD, board-certified in Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Springfield, VA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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Hollenberg A, Wiersinga WM. Hyperthyroid disorders. In: Melmed S, Auchus RJ, Goldfine AB, Koenig RJ, Rosen CJ, eds. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 14th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 12.
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