CHRONIC THYROIDITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Chronic thyroiditis, also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is a medical condition characterized by the chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck, responsible for producing and releasing hormones that regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism.
In chronic thyroiditis, the body's immune system mistakenly recognizes the thyroid gland as a threat and begins producing antibodies that attack and damage the thyroid tissue. This autoimmune response results in ongoing inflammation and, over time, can lead to decreased thyroid function or hypothyroidism.
Symptoms of chronic thyroiditis include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, dry skin, constipation, and a generalized feeling of sluggishness. Other possible symptoms may include mood changes, depression, and thinning hair. The condition tends to develop slowly, often taking years before symptoms become noticeable.
Diagnosis of chronic thyroiditis involves a thorough medical history evaluation, physical examination, and blood tests to measure thyroid hormone and antibody levels. Imaging studies such as ultrasounds may also be ordered to assess the size and condition of the thyroid gland.
Treatment for chronic thyroiditis usually involves hormone replacement therapy to supplement the thyroid hormone deficiency caused by the inactive gland. This typically includes a daily oral medication, usually levothyroxine, which restores hormone levels to normal. Regular monitoring and adjustments of medication dosages may be necessary to ensure optimal hormone production and symptom management.
Common Misspellings for CHRONIC THYROIDITIS
- xhronic thyroiditis
- vhronic thyroiditis
- fhronic thyroiditis
- dhronic thyroiditis
- cgronic thyroiditis
- cbronic thyroiditis
- cnronic thyroiditis
- cjronic thyroiditis
- curonic thyroiditis
- cyronic thyroiditis
- cheonic thyroiditis
- chdonic thyroiditis
- chfonic thyroiditis
- chtonic thyroiditis
- ch5onic thyroiditis
- ch4onic thyroiditis
- chrinic thyroiditis
- chrknic thyroiditis
- chrlnic thyroiditis
- chrpnic thyroiditis
Etymology of CHRONIC THYROIDITIS
The word "chronic" is derived from the Greek word "chronos", meaning time or long duration. "Thyroiditis" is a term derived from the Greek words "thyreos", meaning shield, and "itis", indicating inflammation. So, "chronic thyroiditis" can be understood as a long-lasting inflammation of the thyroid gland.
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