An autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system develops antibodies against its own thyroid gland cells. As a result, the thyroid gland cannot produce enough thyroid hormones, a condition known as hypothyroidism. The principal symptoms of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are tiredness, muscle weakness, and weight gain, and the thyroid gland becomes enlarged.
Diagnosis is confirmed by blood tests.
Treatment is by thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which is life-long.
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