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Silent thyroiditis is swelling (inflammation) of the thyroid gland, in which the person alternates between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.
Alternative NamesLymphocytic thyroiditis; Subacute lymphocytic thyroiditis; Painless thyroiditis; Thyroiditis - silent
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsThe cause of this type of thyroiditis is unknown. The disease affects women more often than men.
SymptomsThe earliest symptoms result from an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). These symptoms may last for 3 months or fewer. Later symptoms may be of an underactive thyroid (including fatigue and cold intolerance) until the thyroid recovers.
Symptoms are usually mild and may include:
- Fatigue
- Frequent bowel movements
- Heat intolerance
- Increased appetite
- Increased sweating
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Irritability
- Muscle cramps
- Nervousness, restlessness
- Palpitations
- Weakness
- Weight loss
A physical examination may show:
- Enlarged thyroid gland
- Rapid heart rate
- Shaking hands
Tests may show:
- Decreased radioactive iodine uptake
- Increased blood levels of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4
- White blood cells (lymphocytes) on a thyroid biopsy
Treatment is based on symptoms. Beta-blockers relieve rapid heart rate and excessive sweating.
Expectations (prognosis)Generally, silent thyroiditis will go away on its own within 1 year. The acutephase will end within 3 months.
Some people may develop hypothyroidism over time. Regular follow-ups with a doctor are recommended.
Calling your health care providerCall your health care provider if you have symptoms of this condition.
ReferencesAACE Thyroid Task Force. American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists medical guidelines for clinical practice for the evaluation and treatment of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Endocr Pract. 2002;8:457-469.
Ladenson P, Kim M. Thyroid. In: Goldman L and Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders; 2007:chap 244.
Brent GA, Larsen PR, Davies TF. Hypothyroidism and thyroiditis. In: Kronenberg HM, Melmed S, Polonsky KS, Larsen PR, eds. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2008:chap 12.
What else can I help you with?
What is another name for subacute thyroiditis?
DeQuervain's thyroiditis, giant cell thyroiditis, granulomatous thyroiditis, subacute granulomatous thyroiditis, Silent thyroiditis
What causes silent thyroiditis?
The cause of silent thyroiditis is uncertain, but the condition is believed to be an immune-system disorder triggered by childbirth.
What is Postpartum thyroiditis?
Postpartum thyroiditis, a form of silent thyroiditis, develops in 5-9% of all women who have recently given birth. Postpartum thyroiditis develops within a year of the baby's birth and disappears within six months.
What are some characteristics of subacute thyroiditis?
The least common of the three major types, silent thyroiditis is characterized by rigidity and slight enlargement of the thyroid gland.
What are the names and dates of three silent movies?
1st silent movie : i am silent 2nd silent movie : we are silent 3rd silent movie : they are silent
What is the comparative and superlative of silent?
more silent, most silent
What is the comparative and superlative form of silent?
Comparative: more silent; Superlative: most silent.
Which letter is silent in the words:WeekWonFlower BlewDew?
In the words provided, the silent letters are as follows: In "Week," there are no silent letters. In "Won," the letter "W" is silent. In "Flower," there are no silent letters. In "Blew," there are no silent letters, and in "Dew," again, there are no silent letters.
What is the silent letter of scoff?
None are silent... The second "f" is silent.
What is the silent letter in calm?
The E in gentle is silent.
What letter is silent in the word herb?
what is the silent letter for sword
What silent letters is in wrote?
The silent letter in the word "wrote" is the silent W.
