Thyroiditis

Postpartum Thyroiditis

Postpartum thyroiditis is a relatively rare condition that affects some women after pregnancy. An estimated 5% of women may experience this in the year after giving birth. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland that is located in the lower front of the neck. The thyroid makes hormones that help the body use energy, stay warm, and keep organs such as the brain, heart, and muscles working. Postpartum thyroiditis can result in

hyperthyroidism

 and sometimes

hypothyroidism

. Hyperthyroidism occurs first, followed by hypothyroidism.
For most women, it is a temporary condition. It is important to allow your doctor to continue to monitor your thyroid levels during treatment.
Symptoms

Increased sensitivity to heat

or Increased sensitivity to cold

common

Fatigue

common

Irregular heartbeat

common

Weight loss

or Recent unexplained weight gain

common

Difficulty passing stool

Feeling moody

Shaking

  • Both sides

  • Resting

Muscle pain

or Joint pain

Risk factors

Postpartum

Treatment
Your doctor will begin your exam with a history of your symptoms. He or she will then take a blood sample to test the levels of thyroid hormones in your blood. This test is usually enough to diagnose postpartum thyroiditis. Treatment for postpartum thyroiditis will vary depending on the severity of your condition: 1-Women with mild symptoms will be watched, but usually not prescribed any medication unless their symptoms worsen. 2-Women with more severe symptoms will be prescribed treatment that varies during each phase of the condition. 3-Women experiencing hyperthyroidism will be treated with beta-blockers to reduce their symptoms. 4-Women in the hypothyroid phase are usually treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Recommended specialist

If you have Thyroiditis, then a visit to an endocrinologist is recommended.

Contact an

Endocrinologist

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