Awareness around the disease has steadily increased, in no small part due to celebrities like Gigi Hadid opening up about their experiences with it.
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Hashimoto’s usually causes hypothyroidism – when the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone – which exhibits a range of symptoms. Around one in seven Australians suffer from a thyroid issue like Hashimoto’s but it’s estimated that a further million people are living with one undiagnosed. If you have noticed any of the following signs of the disease, speak to a medical professional.
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Cold sensitivity
- Constipation
- Pale, dry skin
- Brittle nails
- Unexplained weight gain
- Fluid retention
- A puffy face
- Hair loss and dryness
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Muscle weakness
- Enlargement of the tongue
- Forgetfulness
- Enlargement of the thyroid gland (goitre)
- In women, heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
Sufferers can experience all or scarcely any of these symptoms, which is why proper diagnosis can take years. Fortunately, treatment – which usually includes medication with a synthetic thyroid hormone – can provide relief.
If you’d like more information on thyroid issues, the Australian Thyroid Foundation can help. Head to www.thyroidfoundation.org.au
