Thyroiditis refers to inflammation of the thyroid gland, a small but powerful organ at the base of your neck responsible for regulating your metabolism, energy, and hormone balance. While thyroiditis isn’t a single condition, it describes a group of disorders that cause thyroid inflammation—each with different causes, symptoms, and outcomes.

In this article, we’ll explore the different types of thyroiditis, what causes them, how they affect your body, and what treatment options are available.

What Is Thyroiditis?

Thyroiditis occurs when the thyroid becomes inflamed, often resulting in damage to thyroid cells. This inflammation may lead to either excess release of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism) or a reduction in hormone production (hypothyroidism)—or even both at different stages.

It can be painful or painless, sudden or gradual, and temporary or permanent depending on the type.

Types of Thyroiditis

There are several distinct forms of thyroiditis, each with its own characteristics:

1. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (Chronic Lymphocytic Thyroiditis)

Most common cause of hypothyroidism in the U.S.

• An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks thyroid tissue.
• Often runs in families and is more common in women.
• Develops slowly and may lead to permanent underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).

Symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Cold intolerance
• Depression
• Constipation
• Dry skin

Treatment:

• Lifelong thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine)
• Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels

2. Subacute Thyroiditis (de Quervain’s Thyroiditis)

Typically follows a viral infection

• Causes painful swelling of the thyroid.
• Often includes a phase of hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism.
• Self-limiting in most cases.

Symptoms:

• Neck pain (often radiates to jaw or ears)
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Rapid heartbeat
• Weight changes

Treatment:

• Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs or corticosteroids)
• Beta-blockers (during hyperthyroid phase)
• Temporary thyroid hormone replacement (if hypothyroid phase is prolonged)

3. Postpartum Thyroiditis

Affects women after childbirth

• A temporary autoimmune thyroid condition occurring in the first year postpartum.
• May cause a brief period of hyperthyroidism, followed by hypothyroidism.

Symptoms:

• Similar to those of hyper- or hypothyroidism
• Can be mistaken for normal postpartum changes

Treatment:

• Often resolves on its own
• Temporary use of beta-blockers or thyroid hormone therapy
• Regular follow-up testing

4. Silent or Painless Thyroiditis

Similar to postpartum thyroiditis but not pregnancy-related

• Also believed to be autoimmune.
• No neck pain, but follows a similar pattern: hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism.

Treatment:

• Symptom management with beta-blockers
• Temporary hormone therapy if needed

5. Acute (Suppurative) Thyroiditis

Rare bacterial infection of the thyroid

• Sudden onset, usually in people with preexisting thyroid conditions or weakened immune systems.

Symptoms:

• High fever
• Severe neck pain
• Redness and swelling
• Difficulty swallowing

Treatment:

• Antibiotics
• Surgical drainage (in severe cases)

How Is Thyroiditis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis includes:

• Thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, T4)
  
• Thyroid antibodies (TPOAb, TgAb)
  
• Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) for inflammation
• Ultrasound to assess swelling and blood flow
• Radioactive iodine uptake scan to evaluate thyroid activity

General Treatment Strategies

Treatment depends on the type and stage of thyroiditis:

1. Anti-inflammatory medications – for pain and swelling
2. Beta-blockers – for hyperthyroid symptoms
3. Thyroid hormone therapy – for hypothyroid phases or permanent damage
4. Antibiotics or surgery – for bacterial thyroiditis

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Hashimoto’s and silent thyroiditis may lead to permanent hypothyroidism requiring lifelong treatment.
• Subacute and postpartum thyroiditis often resolve within months but require monitoring.
• Acute thyroiditis requires urgent care but is typically curable.

Follow-up includes:

• Regular blood tests (TSH, T3, T4)
• Monitoring for recurrence (especially postpartum or autoimmune forms)
• Adjusting thyroid hormone doses as needed

Final Thoughts

Thyroiditis is a complex condition that can affect your energy, mood, metabolism, and even fertility. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help you regain balance and avoid long-term complications.

Experiencing unexplained fatigue, weight changes, or neck discomfort?
You could be dealing with thyroid inflammation.
Schedule a thyroid screening or ask about research studies that may be available in your area.