Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

Hashimoto's thyroiditis stands as an autoimmune disorder where the immune system erroneously identifies the thyroid as a foreign entity, leading to an attack on this vital gland. The consequence is inflammation of the thyroid, a condition termed thyroiditis. Hashimoto's thyroiditis goes by various names, including Hashimoto's disease, chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, and autoimmune thyroiditis.
Discovered by a Japanese surgeon in 1912, Hashimoto's is the most prevalent thyroid disorder in the United States, impacting an estimated 1% to 2% of the population. Furthermore, it stands out as the primary cause of hypothyroidism, characterized by an underactive thyroid. This comprehensive guide, from risk factors associated with Hashimoto's to its identifiable symptoms and treatment approaches, equips you with answers to address your crucial queries about this condition.