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Subacute Thyroiditis is marked
by sudden, painful enlargement of the thyroid gland. It tends to affect young and middle-aged women most often. The patient usually exhibits evidence of Hyperthyroidism, but Hypothyroidism is not
uncommon in this condition. Generally, it lasts a few weeks or months. Treatment is usually aimed at controlling the symptoms. Often, the problem goes away, but may return later.
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- The thyroid gland is usually enlarged and painful.
- Sometimes the pain from the Thyroiditis shoots into the ear area.
- If the thyroid gland becomes very large, it may cause pain and/or difficulty swallowing.
- Rarely, pain may be absent. This is called silent Thyroiditis.
- Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism (Palpitations, fibrillation, rapid pulse, tremor, sweating, nervousness, fatigue, Goiter, heat intolerance, emotional swings, characteristic "bulging eyes," etc.) are common.
- Some will feel very weak and tired.
- A small number of cases may become hypothyroid.
- If the thyroid gland is enlarged, it may put pressure on other structures in the neck.
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- It is not known what exactly causes the disease, but some think that it may be due to a viral infection.
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- Symptoms and examination help make the diagnosis.
- Lab tests may show high ESR (Erythrocyte sedimentation rate), low anti-thyroid antibodies, and low uptake of radioactive iodine (thyroid scan).
- Biopsy may be needed to confirm diagnosis, but usually it is not necessary.
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- Treatment depends on whether the patient is hyperthyroid or hypothyroid.
- Hyperthyroidism is treated with a medicine called propranolol, which helps control the symptoms.
- Hypothyroid requires thyroid hormone supplements.
- For pain and swelling, aspirin can be used.
- Treatment is usually continued for several weeks.
- Treatment is directed primarily at controlling the symptoms.
- The disease usually runs its own course and, after some time, it goes away.
- However, the disease may come back in some people.
- The overall prognosis is very good.
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