Bollywood actor Arjun Kapoor recently shared his battle with Hashimoto’s Disease. He discovered the condition after visiting a doctor due to extreme fatigue, weight gain, and other health issues. This disease has severely affected his mental health as well. Arjun also mentioned that his mother and sister have the same condition. While many people may not know about Hashimoto’s, Arjun’s revelation has sparked interest. Here, we explain what Hashimoto’s disease is and how it impacts health.
What is Hashimoto’s Disease?
Hashimoto’s Disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland, according to the Mayo Clinic. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped organ in the neck. It produces hormones that regulate body functions. In Hashimoto’s, the immune system attacks healthy thyroid cells, reducing hormone production. This leads to hypothyroidism, or thyroid hormone deficiency. Hashimoto’s disease is also called Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, Chronic Lymphocytic Thyroiditis, or Chronic Autoimmune Thyroiditis.
Symptoms of Hashimoto’s Disease
As thyroid hormones decrease, people with Hashimoto’s may experience fatigue, weight gain, constipation, cold sensitivity, hair loss, dry skin, and muscle weakness. Mental fatigue, depression, and difficulty focusing are common as well. The thyroid gland may swell, causing a goiter. Hashimoto’s can also slow heart rate and lower blood pressure in some individuals.
Who is at Risk?
Hashimoto’s disease can affect anyone but is most common in middle-aged women. People with a family history of the disease are at higher risk. Symptoms often develop gradually and are mild at first, making early diagnosis difficult. The disease is usually diagnosed when symptoms worsen. Doctors use blood tests, physical exams, and family history to diagnose the condition.
Treatment for Hashimoto’s Disease
Thyroid hormone replacement therapy is the main treatment for Hashimoto’s disease. Doctors prescribe synthetic thyroid hormones to replace the body’s missing hormones and manage hypothyroidism. This therapy restores thyroid function and helps the body work properly. The hormone dosage is adjusted regularly to maintain balance. While Hashimoto’s cannot be cured, it can be managed with medication, allowing individuals to live symptom-free. Regular monitoring is necessary to avoid complications.