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.

Postpartum Thyroiditis