What is postpartum thyroiditis?
|
|
Somewhere between 5% and 9% of women will experience postpartum thyroiditis. Postpartum thyroiditis refers to the inflammation of the thyroid glad that occurs after pregnancy (postpartum). The inflammation itself is typically painless, and occurs between 4 and 12 months after giving birth. However, there are specific symptoms that this inflammation can cause that may need to be treated.
There are two distinct phases of postpartum thyroiditis. Each phase has its own particular symptoms, and each phase will have its own particular treatments.
During the first phase, a woman will experience symptoms of hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid. This period generally lasts from between 2 to 4 months. During this phase a woman feel overly warm. She might have varying degrees and periods of muscle weakness. She might experience an increased amount of anxiety. She might have difficulty with concentration. A woman may sometimes have an extremely rapid heartbeat. In addition, she may even fell occasional tremors. Weight loss is also a typical characteristic of this phase.
During the second phase of postpartum thyroiditis, a woman will experience symptoms of hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid. This also will last for between 2 to 4 months. During this phase, a woman might feel tired. She will likely experience a loss of memory. She might find that her tolerance for cold weather is gone. She may have muscle cramps. She will likely feel weak. She may also have constipation. Weight gain is also a typical characteristic of this phase.
If you believe you are experiencing postpartum thyroiditis, your health care provider may be able to diagnose you properly. Once diagnosed, you may be eligible for treatments. Whether a woman can be treated can include a variety of factors, including your tolerance for thyroid medications, your overall health and medical history, your age, and the extent to which postpartum thyroiditis is affecting you. Treatment for the first phase of hyperthyroidism, treatment is often unnecessary. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy has proven particularly effective during the hypothyroidism (second) phase.
Related Articles:
if you have any questions or comments!