Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases: Treatments

How are autoimmune thyroid diseases treated?

Often, autoimmune thyroid diseases can be symptomless or may not require medical treatment. In cases in which symptoms become bothersome, autoimmune thyroiditis may be treated with a synthetic thyroid hormone, such as levothyroxine (Levoxyl, Synthroid). In some cases, autoimmune thyroid disease symptoms, such as goiter, may resolve themselves over time.

What are the potential complications of autoimmune thyroid diseases?

Generally, autoimmune thyroid diseases themselves are mild and unlikely to lead to complications. In serious or untreated cases, however, bothersome complications can result. These complications are primarily related to decreased thyroid hormone production, and can include:

• Depression
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• Unexplained weight gain