Therapy
Unfortunately, Hashimoto thyroiditis is currently still an incurable disease and is therefore not treated causally. In the absence of symptoms, the disease does not need to be treated. If, however, symptoms of hypothyroidism appear, treatment is provided with a creeping replacement of thyroid hormones.
This is done by taking one tablet daily in the morning, 30 minutes before breakfast. This is usually L-thyroxine (levothyroxine), which must be taken for life. The drug therapy of an underactive thyroid due to Hashimoto is usually unavoidable.
Some patients also have a conversion disorder from T4 to T3. In this case it helps to take a combination preparation of L-thyroxine and liothyronine. It is important to have regular thyroid hormone checks by your doctor.
Caution is advised when taking iodine. Iodine is mainly found in table salt, sea fish, milk and also in hard cheese. Less is found in spinach, broccoli, lamb’s lettuce, potatoes and wholemeal bread.
Although iodine has been deficient in the last decades, especially in southern Germany, and iodine deficiency symptoms can occur, among others, it is unfavorable in connection with Hashimoto thyreoiditis. More than 200μg daily can activate the formation of antibodies. One can breathe a sigh of relief, however, since the amount of iodine in food, which is common in Germany, is not important. It is important to avoid iodine-containing drugs, multivitamins and dietary supplements.
Nutrition
As described above, Hashimoto thyroiditis can lead to a temporary compensatory hyperthyroidism with the respective symptoms after a while due to the autoimmune reactions. In the long run, however, it can lead to an underactive thyroid. When this occurs varies from individual to individual. In the case of hypothyroidism, a lifelong intake of L-thyroxine (often 50μg) is indicated.
