Silent ThyroiditisSymptoms, Doctors, Treatments, Advances & More
Learn About Silent Thyroiditis
Silent thyroiditis is due to an immune reaction against 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:
- Cold intolerance
- Constipation
- Difficulty concentrating or thinking
- Dry skin
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Irregular (or heavy) menstrual periods in women
- Mood changes
- Weight gain
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.
OSF Saint Katharine - Diabetes & Endocrinology
Ifrah Jamil is an Internal Medicine specialist and an Endocrinologist practicing medicine in Dixon, Illinois. Dr. Jamil is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Silent Thyroiditis. She is also highly rated in 4 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Thyroid Storm, Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), Graves Disease, and Silent Thyroiditis. Dr. Jamil is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.
FirstChoice Internal Medicine
Amy Proffitt is a primary care provider, practicing in Internal Medicine in Johnson City, Tennessee. Dr. Proffitt is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Silent Thyroiditis. She is also highly rated in 22 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Infant Hyperglycemia, Sitosterolemia, Multiple Carboxylase Deficiency, and Folate Deficiency. Dr. Proffitt is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.
Texas Health Family Care
Cynthia Shughrue is a primary care provider, practicing in Family Medicine in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Shughrue is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Silent Thyroiditis. She is also highly rated in 6 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Familial Combined Hyperlipidemia, Xanthoma, Cirrhosis, and High Cholesterol.
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 the 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: January 25, 2026
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 W, Bartalena L, Feldt-Rasmussen U. Hyperthyroid disorders. In: Melmed S, Auchus RJ, Goldfine AB, Rosen CJ, Kopp PA, eds. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 15th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 10.
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