Postpartum Thyroiditis
Postpartum Thyroiditis
It is a condition in which thyroid gland which is in neck just behind the Adam’s apple undergo inflammatory changes within the year after birth of baby. Thyroid gland is a bilobated organ which produce T3 and T4 hormone which is necessary for the metabolism.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of postpartum thyroiditis include:
- Insomnia
- Tremor
- Fatigue
- Increase sensitivity to heat
- Unexplained weight loss
- Palpitations
- Increase heart beat
- Lack of interest
- Dry skin
Causes
The major cause of this condition is still unknown but it may be assumed that it may be occurred due to the autoimmunity against thyroid tissue because in patient there is high amount of anti-thyroid antibodies are present.
Diagnosis
After taking history and conducting your doctor will recommend the following tests:
- Blood test to check the complete blood count
- Serum T3 and T4 level
- Serum TSH level
- X-ray of thyroid gland
Treatment
Mild disease does not required treatment and resolve on its own but there are certain medicines which help in this condition like beta blockers which reduce the effect of thyroid hormone. Levothyroxine is also recommended if there are symptoms of hypothyroidism are present.