Inflammation of the thyroid nodule symptoms. Signs of inflammation of the thyroid gland. Subacute granulomatous thyroiditis

Symptoms of thyroid inflammation are determined by the causes of the disease. In general, the pathological process is accompanied by the proliferation of connective tissue and an increase in the size of the organ. Uniform growth is called strumitis, uneven growth is called thyroiditis. Treatment for thyroid inflammation depends on the type of disease.

Types of thyroiditis

Depending on the cause and clinical picture, the following types of disease are distinguished:

subacute thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid gland after a viral infection);
fibrous thyroiditis (chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland, characterized by severe proliferation of its tissue and compression in the neck);
autoimmune thyroiditis (a disease of autoimmune origin; develops as a result of the formation of antibodies to normal cells of the thyroid gland);
acute thyroiditis (occurs against the background of acute or chronic infectious diseases, after injuries, radiation therapy or hemorrhage into the thyroid gland).

Causes of inflammation of the thyroid gland

The most common type is autoimmune chronic thyroiditis. Why a malfunction occurs in the body and antibodies to healthy cells are formed is unknown. Let's look at the risk factors:

“bad” heredity (as a rule, members of the same family, twins, are affected);
disruption of endocrine and immune stability (can occur in adolescence, during pregnancy, after childbirth, during menopause, aging);
unfavorable environmental conditions (work in hazardous industries, life near industrial enterprises, use in agriculture pesticides);
prolonged exposure to large amounts of iodine (excess iodine stimulates the formation of antibodies to normal gland cells);
exposure to low dose radiation;
bacterial and viral infections;
thyroid adenoma;
endemic goiter;
thyroid cancer.

Subacute thyroiditis develops due to a viral infection. The disease is often diagnosed after an outbreak of a virus. This could be the flu, measles, mumps and others. Risk factors:

heredity;
chronic infection in the nasopharynx.

The causes of fibrotic thyroiditis are not fully understood. Some researchers note the negative impact of infectious diseases, others consider the pathology to be the last stage of autoimmune chronic thyroiditis. Risk factors:

Graves' disease;
endemic goiter;
surgical treatment of the thyroid gland;
diabetes;
allergy;
diseases of autoimmune etiology;
heredity;
age after forty years (in women).

Causes of acute thyroiditis:

acute or chronic infections (pneumonia, tonsillitis, etc.);
hemorrhage into the thyroid gland;
thyroid injury;
radiation therapy.

Symptoms of thyroid inflammation

The clinical picture of each type of disease has its own characteristics. Signs of inflammation of the thyroid gland of an autoimmune nature:

enlargement of the thyroid gland (usually uniform; with significant enlargement, the patient feels pressure in the neck area);
the gland is mobile and dense;
difficulty swallowing;
weakness and rapid heartbeat;
causeless weight loss;
excessive sweating;
irritability.

As the pathological process develops, symptoms of hyperthyroidism are first observed, followed by hypothyroidism.

Symptoms of subacute inflammation of the thyroid gland:

severe pain in the front of the neck, radiating to the lower jaw, back of the head, ears; aggravated by tilting and turning the head, chewing, swallowing;
enlargement and significant thickening of the thyroid gland;
redness and increased temperature of the skin over the gland;
enlarged lymph nodes in the neck;
severe fever, chills;
sweating, weakness throughout the body;
headache;
irritability;
hand tremors;
hotness and moisture of the skin;
weight loss.

Fibrous thyroiditis begins to manifest itself only in the last stages:

difficulty swallowing, breathing, speaking;
hoarse voice;
strong and uneven enlargement of the gland; its immobility, density and painlessness;
headache, tinnitus;
pronounced pulsation of blood vessels in the neck area;
visual impairment.

With a long-term course of the disease, signs of hypothyroidism may be observed.

Clinical picture of acute thyroiditis:

pain in the neck, radiating to the back of the head, jaw and increasing with swallowing and moving the head;
enlarged cervical lymph nodes;
significant increase in temperature, chills;
upon palpation - an increase in part or lobe of the thyroid gland.

How to treat inflammation of the thyroid gland?

Treatment of inflammation of the thyroid gland of any type is carried out using one of two methods:

medicinal;
operational.

In subacute and fibrous thyroiditis with a clinical picture of hypothyroidism, treatment is carried out with hormonal drugs. If the thyroid gland is significantly enlarged, surgical intervention is indicated.

Acute thyroiditis is treated with antibiotics and medications to relieve associated symptoms. Additional intake of vitamins B and C is also indicated. In case of purulent inflammation of the tissue, surgical treatment is carried out.

Self-treatment of thyroiditis is contraindicated. The consequences of inflammation of the thyroid gland will be minimal if you consult a doctor in time. Remember, the thyroid gland is responsible for the functioning of many systems in our body.

The thyroid gland is located on the front surface of the neck. It is involved in the “birth” of hormones that control metabolic processes. When a person has treatment folk remedies should be carried out strictly under the supervision of a doctor.

Inflammation of the thyroid gland is also called thyroiditis. The provocateur of this anomaly is usually some kind of disease. Treating this anomaly is quite difficult.

Main types of inflammation

The following types of disease are distinguished:

subacute inflammation of the thyroid gland;
fibrous inflammation of the thyroid gland;
autoimmune inflammation of the thyroid gland;
acute inflammation of the thyroid gland.

In the first case, the inflammatory process occurs against the background of a viral infection. The formation of antibodies should be considered a provocateur of autoimmune inflammation. Doctors say the main reasons for the development of acute thyroiditis are hemorrhage into the gland and radiation therapy.

What are the risk factors?

The most common diagnosis is autoimmune chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland. The main reasons for the anomaly include the following:

genetic predisposition;
disruption of endocrine stability;
disturbance of immune stability;
negative environmental situation;
excess iodine;
exposure to radiation in small doses;
progression of thyroid adenoma;
progression of endemic goiter;
thyroid cancer.

Often the development of this endocrine pathology is observed in twins, children and even grandchildren of the patient. Failure of the immune and endocrine systems can occur both during puberty and during menopause. In addition, working in a hazardous enterprise plays a negative role. Diffuse inflammation is observed with the progression of Graves' disease.

How does pathology manifest itself?

The main sign of endocrine pathology is the appearance of softness at the location of the thyroid gland. This symptom is detected by palpation during an examination by a doctor. The softening is explained by the fact that the cervical nerves become hypersensitive to external pressure.

By palpation or ultrasound, the endocrinologist can detect the presence of a colloid node in the organ. Typically, such formation warns of the risk of developing thyroid disease. However, the appearance of a colloidal node does not always have health consequences. They usually do not grow or develop into tumors.

Another specific sign indicating the occurrence of endocrine pathology should be considered difficulty breathing. This is explained by the fact that the thyroid gland increases in size, and this growth leads to compression of the esophagus.

A more serious and dangerous sign should be considered an irregular heartbeat. This symptom appears when the inflamed thyroid gland begins to produce excess quantity hormones that affect the heart. Tachycardia is sometimes observed. It is not uncommon for the heart rate to reach 100 beats/60 seconds.

Changes also appear on the emotional background. Representatives of the fair sex especially often suffer from this. Concentration decreases and unexplained fatigue appears. Many women complain of forgetfulness. Some people get irritated over every little thing and take it out on their loved ones. In the most difficult cases, a person develops depression.

What are the consequences

Advanced inflammation of the thyroid gland has serious consequences. Most often, irreversible organ failure develops against this background. Injury to thyrocytes is observed.

In case of acute damage to the thyroid gland, the following consequences are possible:

meningitis;
pulmonary abscess;
aspiration pneumonia.

With a purulent inflammatory process, damage to nearby vessels and tissues occurs. Over time, the infection spreads throughout the body.

In the case of transformation of autoimmune thyroiditis into chronic, no serious consequences are observed.

How can you help a person

Acute thyroiditis is treated with medication. The patient is prescribed antibiotic drugs. Additionally, the doctor may prescribe treatment with antiviral and anti-inflammatory medications.

If an abscess occurs, the patient is prescribed surgical treatment. To avoid consequences, the doctor removes not only the pus, but also the affected areas of the thyroid gland.

Treatment of subacute thyroiditis involves prescribing glucocorticoids to the patient. These drugs help relieve inflammation, and with their help the doctor relieves the symptoms of intoxication. To eliminate pain, drugs such as dexamethasone, Kenalog and prednisolone are prescribed.

Additionally, the patient may be prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs. Most often, the patient is prescribed medications such as indomethacin and diclofenac.

Treatment of chronic thyroiditis primarily aims to relieve symptoms. For this, the patient is prescribed medications such as Mercazolil and Thiamazole. To activate immune defense, the patient is prescribed immunomodulatory drugs.

Use of folk remedies

Treatment with folk remedies is often an additional method of combating pathology. It must take place under the strict supervision of a doctor. You cannot treat such a serious disease on your own.

Treatment with oak bark

Treatment of this endocrine pathology with folk remedies often involves the use of oak bark. To prepare the medicine, you need to grind a small piece of it and throw it into boiling water. You need to infuse the decoction for thirty minutes.

After this, you need to moisten a cotton cloth and apply it to the affected area. Woolen fabric should be tied on top.

This manipulation must be done before going to bed. The course of treatment with folk remedies is 14-20 days. You can also use oak bark to rub the affected area.

Porridge treatment

Many people are interested in the question of how to treat porridge disease. Prepared according to a special recipe, it has a beneficial effect not only on the thyroid gland, but also on the entire laryngeal area. To prepare porridge for thyroiditis, you need the following components:

buckwheat kernels – 100 g;
turmeric – 1 spoon;
seaweed – 50 g;
boiling water – 0.5 liters;
salt (sea).

Mix all the ingredients and cook the porridge. It should be eaten immediately after preparation. It is recommended to cook a fresh portion of porridge each time.

Consuming oatmeal

When starting to treat the thyroid gland with folk remedies, one should not forget about the healing properties of oats. This product helps eliminate toxins and restore the functioning of the gland. It is important that the oatmeal broth is very strong. After cooking, you need to let it sit thoroughly. Then soak a cotton cloth in the broth and apply it to the affected area for 24 hours.

Treatment with nuts and herbs

To prevent relapse and progression of endocrine pathology, it is recommended to use walnut kernels. It is recommended to eat 50 g of them every day. The course of preventive treatment is 30 days.

In addition, folk remedy therapy involves the use of motherwort leaves. They should be mixed with two tablespoons of hawthorn fruit and the same amount of valerian root, pour boiling water over it, and leave. You need to take the medicine 0.5 cups daily. Motherwort is allowed to alternate with mint leaves.

With hyperfunction

Therapy with folk remedies increased function the thyroid gland continues for one and a half years. The break in treatment is fifteen days. To prepare a healing remedy, you need to mix hawthorn with plantain, lemon balm and sage. Pour water over the herbs and leave for five to ten minutes. Strain and drink 1 glass before meals.

For hypofunction

In this case, the disease will have to be treated for 2-4 weeks. To prepare a healing solution, you need to mix nettle leaves with cocklebur, gorse, dandelion root and mordovnik seeds. Brew herbs in 1 glass of water, leave and strain. To stop a relapse of endocrine pathology, you need to take the medicine before going to bed along with seaweed.

Finally

To get rid of the symptoms of thyroiditis, it is recommended to wear a necklace made of garlic cloves. It is better to wear it at night.

One of the “conductors” of the human body, because all metabolic processes depend on the correctness of its work. But like any other organ, its function can be impaired due to disease.

Symptoms of inflammation

Inflammation of the thyroid gland, otherwise known as thyroiditis, can have different origins, and its clinical course has its own characteristics. There are differences in the dysfunction of the gland in the male and female body.

In the male body:

increased drowsiness and fatigue;
anxiety;
complete or partial insomnia;

irritability and tearfulness;
memory impairment;
decreased sex drive;
unreasonable fever and temperature
hair loss.

In women, the picture of symptoms is different:

nausea;
dry skin;
obesity;
night cramps;
high blood pressure;
sweating

Acute thyroiditis: purulent and non-purulent

In the general mass of thyroid disorders, acute inflammation is quite rare. But it is impossible to miss them, the course of the disease is acute. They are accompanied by pain along the anterior surface of the neck in the projection of the thyroid gland, radiating to the ear and lower jaw. Swallowing and turning the head increase the suffering of patients.

The affected portion of the organ increases in volume and becomes denser in comparison with the healthy gland. Body temperature rises to 40 °C, symptoms appear:

rapid heartbeat;
increased sweating;
tremor of the palms.

The cause of purulent inflammation is infectious pathogens - streptococci, staphylococci, and sometimes fungi. They are present in some quantity in the body, and this is the norm. But as soon as your immunity weakens and your control weakens, they begin to attack.

Due to good blood circulation, the thyroid gland is the most “suitable” target, and the proximity of carious teeth increases the chances several times. The infectious agent irritates the gland tissue with the formation of an abscess. If it is large enough, then a symptom of fluctuation can be determined. The appearance of an abscess is associated with the risk of breakthrough and spread of pus into the mediastinum.

Non-purulent inflammation of the thyroid gland is quite rare and is explained by specific factors of occurrence - radiation damage, absorption of large amounts of radioactive iodine by the gland during accidents at nuclear power plants, or incorrect dosage of radioactive iodine for the treatment of toxic goiter.

Diagnosis of purulent inflammation

Signs of inflammation are revealed in a general blood test - leukocytosis and increased ESR. The level of hormones and the absorbing function of the gland remain unremarkable. During an ultrasound, round formations are found. With the help, you can identify purulent contents and use it to determine the pathogen and sensitivity to antimicrobial therapy. For the diagnosis of non-purulent thyroiditis, the fact of radiation influence is important.

Treatment of purulent inflammation

For purulent thyroiditis, broad-spectrum antibiotics are used without waiting for culture results, after which correction is only carried out. If an abscess has formed, it is drained.

In the case of non-purulent inflammation in women, treatment is symptomatic. Hormone therapy is prescribed depending on the level of gland activity.

De Quervain's thyroiditis - subacute thyroiditis

This type of inflammation of the thyroid gland is placed in a separate group and its causative agent is clearly identified - a viral infection. This dependence is evidenced not only laboratory research, but also the clinical picture. Typically, the first manifestations of inflammation occur 2–3 weeks after an acute respiratory infection.

Symptoms of inflammation of the thyroid gland, as in the case of acute thyroiditis, appear abruptly and they are very similar to the picture of the purulent form. But this form is characterized by a staged process:

the acute phase, lasting up to 8 weeks, is manifested by the same symptoms as acute thyroiditis;
– depending on how much the gland was damaged in the first stage, the level of hormones will be normal or reduced;
recovery - all manifestations of the inflammation disappear, thyroid function is completely restored. Persistent hypothyroidism may remain in 5% of patients.

Diagnosis of subacute thyroiditis

Inflammatory changes are reflected in a general blood test. The level of thyroid hormones in the blood is increased, and thyrotropin, on the contrary, is decreased. The ultrasound picture will reflect the cyclical nature of how the gland becomes inflamed - a heterogeneous structure due to a large number of inclusions of different densities. The studies are also complemented by cytological diagnosis of thyroid cells.

Treatment

Subacute thyroiditis is treated with anti-inflammatory drugs - steroidal (prednisolone) and non-steroidal (ibuprofen). For symptomatic therapy, beta-blockers (anaprilin) are used.

Chronic thyroiditis

There is a group of the most common pathologies of the thyroid gland. Due to the absence of pronounced symptoms, they can exist for a long time.

There are several types of chronic thyroiditis.

One of them is inflammation of the thyroid gland with gradual and long-term destruction of thyroid cells and the subsequent development of the state of hypothyroidism - a decrease in the level of thyroid hormones in the blood. A feature of such inflammation is that for some reason the body begins to perceive the gland as a foreign body and attacks its tissues with specific antibodies.

The disease can occur at any age. Women get sick more often. Research in this area has revealed that autoimmune thyroiditis is a genetically determined disease and can be combined with other diseases:

anemia;
insulin-dependent diabetes.

But the implementation of genetic predisposition occurs under the influence of various environmental factors. You can also notice a tendency for this pathology to increase with age, which is explained by the cumulative effect of stress factors.

Since the disease is slowly progressive, the first thing patients begin to complain about when visiting a doctor is discomfort and a feeling of squeezing. Upon examination, you can palpate to determine the enlargement and unevenness of the gland.

Often diagnosed in a state of severe hypothyroidism. Patients complain of physiological disorders:

weight gain;
drowsiness;
yellowness and dry skin;
frequent fastenings;
hearing and memory impairment.

Women experience acyclic uterine bleeding, and discharge from the nipples (galactorrhea) may appear.

Less common is autoimmune thyroiditis with increased activity of the thyroid gland. This condition occurs if functionally active areas remain in the thyroid gland. If in a normal state their activity maintains balance, then after respiratory infections, pregnancy and childbirth their activity increases sharply. Thus, the reduced amount of glandular tissue is compensated by increased production of hormones.

Diagnosis of chronic thyroiditis

The methods listed above are also used to diagnose autoimmune thyroiditis. Diagnosticians identify several of the most important criteria in making this diagnosis:

the presence of a goiter with an uneven surface;
uneven accumulation of radiopharmaceuticals during;
increased levels of antibodies to thyroglobulin;
characteristic changes in punctate.

The combination of at least two signs indicates autoimmune thyroiditis.

Treatment of chronic thyroiditis

The principle of treatment is hormone replacement therapy, since the most common is the hypothyroid condition. L-thyroxine is prescribed at a dose of 12.5 mcg/day. It is gradually increased to maintain a lasting effect.

In the future, regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels is necessary. If the hormone levels are normal, then thyroid hormones are not prescribed. And for hyperthyroidism, therapy is carried out with beta blockers, prednisolone; with pronounced manifestations - Mercazolil.

Riedel's goiter - invasive fibrous thyroiditis

The causes of this disease are not fully understood. It is believed that fibrotic inflammation of the thyroid gland is one of the foci of manifestations general processes in organism.

Symptoms of Riedel's goiter are not specific; they are subjective:

difficulty swallowing;
organ compaction;
the gland is inactive (not mobile at all);
the gland tissues merge with the environment;
change in voice timbre.

Ultrasound shows that the gland is reduced in volume, sometimes there is fibrosis and growth of connective tissue into the capsule.

Treatment is exclusively surgical. In the postoperative period, hormone monitoring and, if necessary, replacement therapy are required. Inflammation of the thyroid gland, the symptoms of which are similar to other diseases, requires careful examination.

Special forms of inflammation of the thyroid gland

Additional causes of chronic specific inflammation are:

syphilis;
tuberculosis bacillus;
sarcoidosis;
granulomatosis.

In diagnostic terms, the manifestations of the underlying disease will be important for making a diagnosis. To confirm the diagnosis, a puncture biopsy is used with further microscopic examination. Inflammation of the thyroid gland is treated taking into account the stages of disease development.

The first is accompanied by the formation of local lesions in the thyroid gland. In subacute inflammation, the changes are diffuse or nodular in nature. Chronic thyroiditis develops against the background of autoimmune or infectious diseases.

Causes

Chronic inflammatory process in the thyroid gland in women can be fibrous or autoimmune in nature. The acute purulent form develops against the background of infectious diseases - pneumonia, tonsillitis, sinusitis. The occurrence of aseptic thyroiditis is facilitated by injuries, hemorrhages, and radiation exposure. Subacute inflammation is found in patients who have had viral infections - measles, mumps, ARVI.

Autoimmune inflammation develops due to malfunction immune system, in which it produces antibodies that destroy healthy cells.

This is the most common thyroid disease, which is diagnosed 10 times less often in men than in women. The disease is increasingly being detected in children and adolescents.

The causes of fibrotic inflammation remain unknown. It is believed that Riedel's goiter is the last stage of autoimmune inflammation. People with or other types are susceptible to the disease.

Symptoms of thyroid inflammation in women and men

The clinical picture is determined by the form of thyroiditis.

In acute purulent form:

There is severe pain in the front of the neck, radiating to the back of the head and lower jaw. They intensify when swallowing food and turning the head.
Nearby lymph nodes become inflamed, the temperature rises and fever develops.
A rapid deterioration in health forces the patient to consult a doctor.

Non-purulent inflammation has less pronounced symptoms. In the early stages, signs of hyperthyroidism are present. The patient complains that he has pain on the right side of his neck or on the left. Other symptoms of aseptic inflammation:

tremor of the limbs;
hyperhidrosis;
tachycardia;
weight loss;
increased levels of T3 and T4 with a normal amount of TSH.

With prolonged inflammation, thyrotoxicosis changes. Destroying thyroid tissue is replaced by connective tissue. At this stage the symptoms will be as follows:

lethargy and apathy;
chills;
swelling of the face and lower extremities;
dry skin;
decrease in heart rate;
dysfunction of the digestive system.

With autoimmune inflammation, symptoms of the disease appear only several years after its onset. As a result of compression of the larynx, problems with speech and swallowing occur. The level of triiodothyronine and thyroxine changes. In the early stages, hypothyroidism develops, later symptoms predominate. When identifying this form of inflammation, it is necessary to conduct a blood test for the presence.

Autoimmune thyroiditis is often accompanied by signs of rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, or scleroderma.

With the use of immunosuppressive drugs, the symptoms of inflammation gradually subside.

Diagnostics

A preliminary diagnosis is made based on existing symptoms, results of laboratory and instrumental research methods. General analysis blood reflects an increase in the number of lymphocytes and. It is necessary to determine the concentration and . This test helps identify organ dysfunction caused by inflammation. when T4 decreases, it indicates hypothyroidism.

When carried out, a change in its size and the presence of hypoechoic inclusions are detected. This is the most informative way to diagnose organ diseases.

Used to identify lymphocytes and other cells that appear during autoimmune inflammation.
Histological examination is carried out if cancer is suspected. The analysis helps to detect malignant cells in a timely manner.

Treatment with folk remedies

Alternative medicine methods complement well traditional treatment. These products cannot be used as the only medications. Before using this or that recipe, you should consult with, who will identify indications and contraindications and assess the risk of allergic reactions.

Oil hoods

To make such products, celandine, kirkazon, sweet clover or cocklebur are used. The grass is dried and crushed. The resulting raw materials are poured vegetable oil in a 1:1 ratio. Extracts are used for application to the skin of the cervical area. The composition is stored in a glass container in a cool, dark place.

Phytotherapy

100 g of kelp, 50 g each of plantain leaves, pine buds, field cartilage and partitions walnuts crushed and mixed. 2 tbsp. l. collection, pour 200 ml of boiling water, add 50 g of honey and finely chopped lemon, cook for 15 minutes over low heat. The composition is cooled, filtered and taken 20 ml 3-4 times a day. The course of treatment is 1 month.

Juice therapy

This method is often used to treat inflammation of the thyroid gland at home. Freshly squeezed juices prevent cell death and the appearance of malignant tumors. Fresh cabbage or lemon juice protects tissues from destruction, sea buckthorn juice stimulates the production of hormones. Potato juice is used in the treatment of autoimmune thyroiditis. Fresh beetroot or carrots relieve signs of inflammation.

Drug treatment

In acute thyroiditis, antibiotics, vitamins and drugs are used for symptomatic treatment. Hormonal therapy is prescribed for fibrotic inflammation, which is manifested by a decrease in the secretion of T3 and T4.

Subacute thyroiditis is treated with corticosteroids and salicylic group drugs.

If signs of thyrotoxicosis are detected, drugs that suppress thyroid function are prescribed. If the nodes do not decrease within six months, powerful hormonal drugs are used (). After 3 months, doses begin to be reduced, gradually abandoning the medication.

Diet

Compliance with the principles proper nutrition does not mean giving up food. The diet should be balanced. If you have thyroiditis, you should not reduce its calorie content. You need to eat 5-6 times a day in small portions. It is not recommended to eat after 18:00. The menu should include meat and fish dishes, containing substances necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. Useful fresh vegetables and fruits.

Prevention

If inflammation of the thyroid gland is not accompanied by dysfunction of the gland, the patient should be observed by an endocrinologist. This will help to detect and eliminate alarming symptoms in a timely manner. Women should monitor the condition of the thyroid gland during pregnancy and lactation, as well as during menopause. Additionally, it is recommended to take iodine supplements.

The terminology thyroiditis refers to a complex of pathological processes that provoke inflammation of the thyroid gland of various etiologies. The disease can take an acute and chronic form and transform into other dysfunctions of the endocrine system.

Causes of thyroiditis

It is difficult to identify clear causes of thyroiditis, since inflammation occurs due to a number of provoking factors that arise under certain conditions. An increased risk of developing thyroiditis occurs with the following phenomena:

Iodine deficiency, leading to hypothyroidism or decreased activity of the thyroid gland.
Infectious diseases, viral, chronic disorders of internal organs.
Autoimmune pathologies that often provoke inflammatory processes. When such immune system disorders are considered the main causes of the disease, the disease is called autoimmune thyroiditis.
Mechanical damage to the gland or other organs of the endocrine system.
Oncology, neoplasms of various etiologies.
Hormonal disorders caused by menopause, which is common in women, as well as by taking medicines or other phenomena.
Heredity. If close relatives have had problems with the thyroid gland, then the risk of such disorders increases several times.
External influences in the form of radiation, poor ecology.

The causes of thyroiditis can be complex, but in any case it is important to determine them in order to select adequate treatment.

Types of inflammation and symptoms

What the symptoms will be depends on the type of inflammation, and it can be as follows:

Acute thyroiditis. Occurs after infectious diseases, mechanical influences, hemorrhages or the occurrence of serious pathological processes. It is formed in both men and women. During acute inflammation, the thyroid gland enlarges and becomes denser. There may be partial or complete damage to the organ, with the presence of pus.
Subacute thyroiditis. It is rare and has three clinical forms.
Chronic thyroiditis. Unites a group of diseases, including autoimmune thyroiditis, which is characterized by an inadequate response of the body to its own cells. He perceives them as alien and begins to eliminate them. As a result, thyroid tissue is destroyed, which leads to inflammation and dysfunction of the organ. This category includes other equally serious diseases of the thyroid gland.

Main symptoms

Symptoms of thyroiditis are felt already during the development of the disease; in the initial stages, it is difficult to determine the pathology without special studies. Such reactions manifest themselves as follows:

Changes in weight, there may be an increase or a sharp decline.
Soreness, swelling of the throat, sometimes a cough or a sore feeling.
Enlargement of the thyroid gland, sometimes it is noticeable even visually without palpation, a goiter may appear.
Weakness, high fatigue.
Crash menstrual cycle, reproductive disorders.
Changes in blood pressure.
Unreasonable mood swings, emotional excitability or apathy.

Signs can appear with varying intensity; each type of thyroiditis has characteristic symptoms.

Symptoms for a specific type of inflammation

Acute thyroiditis is characterized by an increase in temperature, both general for the whole body and in a specific area of the thyroid gland. If tissue suppuration is present, the temperature approaches 40°C, the person shudders, and severe pain occurs in the neck, back of the head, ears, and tongue.

Subacute thyroiditis also occurs with elevated temperature, on average up to 39°C. Central nervous system disorders, headache, and discomfort in the neck, ear area, which grow during food intake. Feeling of heaviness in the thyroid area, profuse sweating, tremors of the limbs.

Chronic thyroiditis, and in particular autoimmune thyroiditis, manifests itself in the form of diffuse enlargement of the thyroid gland, heart rhythm disturbances, and problems with swallowing, as there is a feeling of a “lump” in the throat. Weight changes rapidly, although appetite remains the same. The gland may become denser and tuberosity may appear.

Treatment methods

To restore the functions of the thyroid gland and eliminate the inflammatory process, it is necessary to determine the causes of the disease and analyze the overall clinical picture. Treatment is selected only after donating blood for hormone levels and ultrasound of the thyroid gland, if necessary, after a biopsy. Additional tests may also be prescribed at the discretion of the doctor.

Therapy for maintaining the thyroid gland can vary significantly depending on the type of thyroiditis, but in almost all cases it is necessary to take certain medications.

In each individual case, an individual course of restoration of the thyroid gland is selected. Roughly it might look like this:

Prescribing NSAIDs to relieve inflammation and prevent its further spread. Such drugs relieve unpleasant symptoms to a greater extent, but do not eliminate the very cause of the process.
Reception hormonal drugs. The regimen and type of hormonal therapy depends on the manifestation of the pathology (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism). In some cases, it is enough to take a course of such drugs, but there are diseases that require lifelong hormone therapy, for example, chronic and autoimmune thyroiditis.
In case of acute inflammatory inflammation with the formation of pus, an extensive abscess, hospitalization is necessary, followed by surgical intervention. The pus is drained, after which antihistamines, antibacterial medications, and vitamins are prescribed. Hormone replacement therapy is chosen; it can be temporary or permanent.
Diet. It does not always include foods rich in iodine, since in case of hyperthyroidism they generally need to be minimized. The optimal diet will be recommended by your doctor. If necessary, take immunostimulants, vitamin and mineral complexes.

It is sometimes advisable to use recipes as general tonics traditional medicine, but only in agreement with the endocrinologist.

In such cases, it is important to constantly regulate hormone levels and the general condition of the endocrine system. A blood test is periodically taken, an examination is carried out by a specialist, and an ultrasound is performed if necessary.

Treating thyroiditis on your own without consulting an endocrinologist is dangerous not only for health, but also for life. If you suspect thyroid disorders, you should immediately contact the clinic; only in this way can a correct diagnosis be established.

How to treat nodular goiter of the thyroid gland?

Nodular goiter of the thyroid gland, the symptoms and treatment of which are described in this article, indicate the presence of formations. In the term “nodular goiter of the thyroid gland,” the word “goiter” indicates an enlargement of the thyroid gland. But the nodes themselves are different, as are the reasons for their occurrence.

Classification and origin of nodes

The classification of nodular goiter greatly simplifies the understanding of its varieties, the origin of symptoms and is necessary to specify the diagnosis.

The first classification is the simplest, morphological.

By the number of nodules:

Solitary (i.e. single) node,
Multinodular goiter,
Conglomerate nodular goiter,

The second classification is important in relation to symptoms. Thus, with toxic goiter, a classic set of symptoms of an overdose of thyroid hormones is observed. This means that the nodes are actively producing hormones. On the contrary, nontoxic goiter, recognized as the most common manifestation of iodine deficiency, is not accompanied by any disturbances in the hormonal activity of the thyroid gland.

According to the hormonal activity of the node or nodes:

Toxic nodular goiter.
Non-toxic nodular goiter.

The third classification is the most informative regarding the diagnosis itself.

For diseases manifested by nodes in the thyroid gland:

Cyst, benign node.
Types of thyroid cancer.
Cancer metastases to the thyroid gland.
Chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis.
Subacute thyroiditis.

The most common cause of nodular goiter is now considered to be iodine deficiency. The thyroid gland increases the production of triiodothyronine, whose effect on the body is stronger than that of the second thyroid hormone thyroxine, and less iodine is spent on its synthesis. In case of shortage thyroid hormones the body begins to intensively stimulate the thyroid gland. In response to this, small but gradually growing nodules appear in the thyroid gland. This is how cysts and other benign formations of the thyroid gland often appear.

The most serious cause of nodular goiter is cancer. The so-called primary cancer is the result of cancerous restructuring of the cells of the thyroid gland. Metastatic cancer is a group of malignant cells that has entered the gland from a cancerous focus in another organ. The worst thing is that cancer in the thyroid gland may not form a single node and may not manifest itself in any way for a long time.

As for thyroiditis, or inflammatory diseases of the thyroid gland, the nodes in it are inflammatory granulomas. Not every inflammation forms granulomas, and even the above-mentioned thyroiditis does not always manifest itself as nodules.

Symptoms of nodular goiter

Since nodular goiter can be the result of different diseases, the symptoms are different. For simplicity, it is advisable to divide diseases into three large groups:

Benign formations (cysts, cystomas, adenomas, etc.)
Cancer (both primary and metastatic)
Thyroiditis.

Most nodules in the thyroid gland do not show any symptoms, which does not exclude cancer at all - that is why it is necessary to be examined.

The group of benign formations is the most harmless both in terms of symptoms and prognosis. It covers many types of nodules, but they are all united by slow growth and a clear boundary between the tissues of the nodule and the thyroid gland. If there are few nodes and they are small, then there may easily be no symptoms.

Quite rarely, these benign nodes grow to large sizes, and then the symptoms finally appear. A large nodular goiter can compress the airways of the neck and cause aesthetic discomfort (see photo). When the number or size of the nodes is very large, there is almost no normal, hormone-synthesizing thyroid tissue left. Then all the above symptoms are complemented by hypothyroidism, or a lack of thyroid hormones.

A cancerous nodule in the thyroid gland, which is also often diagnosed as nodular goiter, can manifest itself with symptoms described for benign formations and nothing more. However, the classic symptoms of cancer are rapid and pronounced weight loss without visible reasons, inexplicable aversion to meat, weakness, dizziness, etc. A conglomerate nodular goiter is very characteristic of cancer, that is, in the thyroid gland a group of nodes are fused together. When palpated, the surface of the nodular conglomerate is lumpy. Enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes closest to the thyroid gland, immobility when palpating nodules in the gland.

Inflammation, or thyroiditis, is characterized by fever, enlargement and pain when touching the thyroid gland through the tissues of the neck, chills, excess or insufficient production of thyroid hormones, and weakness.

It is quite obvious that it is impossible to make a specific diagnosis for nodular goiter based on symptoms alone, and especially without consulting a doctor.

IN basic set Research includes an ultrasound of the thyroid gland, a blood test for thyroid hormones, antibodies and general, plus often a biopsy (a piece of the gland will be examined under a microscope).

Treatment of nodules

Benign and inflammatory nodes

Benign nodular formations, with their small number and size, usually do not require treatment. Those that are capable of malignizing, that is, degenerating into cancer, deserve special attention. Such nodular formations are recommended to be removed during surgery. This also applies to large formations that compress the trachea and/or interfere with swallowing.

When there are numerous small nodules that almost completely replace the working thyroid tissue and are accompanied by a lack of thyroid hormones, the entire thyroid gland is often removed, and the person begins taking thyroid hormones for life. Contrary to the widespread prejudice of patients against hormonal drugs, with the correct dose and strict adherence to the recommended regimen of taking the drug, these drugs are completely safe and do not in any way affect the quality and length of life.

Different forms of thyroiditis are also treated differently, but there are several general principles therapy. Firstly, it is the fight against inflammation. NSAIDs, glucocorticoids, and sometimes even cytostatics are used. Of these three groups of drugs, NSAIDs have the mildest effect. They are prescribed for mild, less often for moderate, thyroiditis.

Secondly, inflammation of the gland is often accompanied by a violation of its hormonal function, a lack or excess of hormones. In case of hormonal deficiency, the dose of thyroid hormones is selected, and in case of excess, cytostatics are prescribed, and in exceptional cases, surgery is even recommended.

Thirdly, if the infectious origin of thyroiditis in nodular goiter is proven, then it is advisable to additionally use antibiotics. For subacute and autoimmune thyroiditis, immunomodulatory therapy is prescribed, and for iodine deficiency conditions, iodine preparations are included in the treatment.

Cancerous formations

For cancerous nodular formations manifested by nodular goiter, surgery is also recommended in most cases. In most cases, the entire gland or part of it is removed, but always together with the cervical lymph nodes. This is necessary to prevent cancer from spreading throughout the body. Surgery is usually preceded by chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy to reduce the size of the cancer and, accordingly, the amount of tissue removed.

In case of metastases, it is necessary to find their source and treat based on the specific form of cancer. You should also make sure that there are no metastases to other organs. Usually, a biopsy can determine which malignant cells of which organ are located in the thyroid nodule, which speeds up the search and allows treatment to begin earlier. In terms of patient prognosis, metastatic cancer is worse than primary cancer.

Palliative treatment should be considered separately. It is prescribed when it is impossible complete cure to prolong life and improve its quality. This includes chemoradiotherapy and partial surgical removal of the nodular cancer.

Only the main points of treatment are described; when prescribing therapy for nodular goiter, the doctor takes into account both the specific form of the disease and concomitant diseases. This is why self-medication is unacceptable!

Diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory processes in the thyroid gland

The thyroid gland in the human body is a kind of shield that protects it from all kinds of diseases. However, this is evidenced by the name of the organ. However, thyroid diseases affect an increasing number of people, and little is still known about the causes of their development, as well as reliable methods of treatment.

There are many factors that can cause the development of inflammation of the thyroid gland (called thyroiditis). But, unfortunately, this disease is very often confused with a banal sore throat, causing delays in starting treatment. What is thyroiditis, and what can happen if you ignore the symptoms of the disease and choose the wrong treatment?

general description

Thyroiditis is an inflammatory process in the internal structure of the thyroid gland, leading to the proliferation of its tissue. This disease most often affects women. Moreover, their age, as a rule, ranges from 30-50 years. In representatives of the stronger half of humanity, this disease is diagnosed 10 times less often. However, in last years inflammation of the thyroid gland is found in very young people, children and adolescents.

Thyroiditis ranks second in prevalence among all endocrine diseases. The first place on the pedestal belongs to diabetes mellitus. Moreover, autoimmune thyroiditis is the most common disease caused by faulty functioning of the immune system.

Types of thyroiditis

There are three types of thyroiditis:

spicy;
subacute;
chronic.

Acute thyroiditis is further divided into two types.

Purulent thyroiditis develops as a result of past infectious diseases, which include sinusitis, purulent tonsillitis, pneumonia and many others.
Non-purulent thyroiditis is a consequence of neck injuries. The non-purulent form of the disease can develop after various types radiation, such as radiation therapy.

With purulent thyroiditis, an infection enters the thyroid tissue through the blood, which leads to the development inflammatory processes. In this case, inflammation most often occurs in one of the lobes of the organ in the form of an abscess, popularly called an abscess. An abscess causes damage to the thyroid tissue and a decrease in its function.

Neck injuries can cause hemorrhage in the thyroid tissue, thus causing the death of some follicles. As a result, the activity of the endocrine organ also decreases.

Symptoms of acute thyroiditis

The main symptoms of thyroid inflammation include the following:

a sharp increase in temperature;
chills;
increased heart rate (tachycardia);
pain felt in the neck area, radiating to the head and face;
sore throat when swallowing;
cough;
suffocation.

This condition causes intoxication of the body, so it is almost always accompanied by nausea, vomiting and general weakness.

Methods of detection and treatment

The attending physician can determine inflammatory processes in the thyroid gland by palpating it, causing the patient to sharp pain. Examination shows an enlargement of the endocrine organ with thickening of its tissue. If a purulent process develops in the gland, it softens and the pain subsides somewhat. As the disease progresses, the abscess breaks out. In this case, a breakthrough can occur both outward and inward. In the latter case, there is a risk of developing sepsis, requiring urgent surgery.

Treatment of acute inflammation of the thyroid gland involves taking antibiotics, as well as drugs with antiviral activity. Purulent inflammation is treated with an operation, during which the abscess is opened, the pus is washed out, and the affected areas of the gland are removed. If the disease begins to be treated early stage, the organ tissues will not have time to collapse, and therefore the gland will be able to perform its functions in full.

Subacute thyroiditis

This form of the disease is caused by acute viral infections, including influenza, chickenpox, measles and mumps. The virus, entering the thyroid tissue, contributes to the development of hyperplasia of its cells. During the lesion, cell division is disrupted, the follicles are damaged, releasing colloid - a liquid with hormones. After this, the follicles are completely destroyed, and adhesions form in their place.

Symptoms and treatment of the disease are determined based on the stage of its development.

On initial stage the patient is worried about an increase in temperature, accompanied by pain in the throat and ear.
Once the follicles are destroyed, symptoms of hyperthyroidism develop. At this stage, the immune system begins to produce antibodies that destroy pathological thyroid cells.

Methods of detection and treatment

Palpation of the thyroid gland helps to identify the inflammatory process. At this moment it is enlarged, and the process of palpation causes pain in the patient. Helps determine the exact form of the disease laboratory analysis blood and ultrasound.

The main method of treating this form of the disease is the use of glucocorticoid and anti-inflammatory drugs to eliminate signs of inflammation of the thyroid gland. After the patient’s general condition improves, he is prescribed immunomodulatory drugs.

Chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland develops due to improper functioning of the immune system. In every person's body, the immune system produces antibodies that destroy foreign cells. In the chronic form of the disease, antibodies begin to destroy thyroid cells, mistaking them for foreign. In this case, antibodies can destroy both thyroid follicles that produce the hormones T3 and T4, and pituitary cells that produce thyroid-stimulating hormone. In addition, they have a detrimental effect on receptor cells sensitive to TSH.

In autoimmune thyroiditis, the causes of thyroid disease most often lie in a genetic predisposition associated with immune disorders. At the same time, the activity of the gland can either increase or decrease.

This condition is usually asymptomatic. In most cases, people consult a doctor as the disease progresses and signs of hypo- or hyperthyroidism begin to appear. It should be noted that it is inflammatory processes of a chronic nature that are the most common reasons development malignant neoplasms in the thyroid gland.

Methods of detection and treatment

An accurate diagnosis can be determined through a complex of diagnostic tests, including a blood test, ultrasound and biopsy. Treatment of thyroid inflammation in this case is aimed at eliminating the symptoms of the disease. For this purpose, drugs containing glucocorticoid hormones are used. Further treatment is aimed at strengthening the patient's immune system.

The main symptoms of thyroid inflammation in women are decreased libido and infertility. However, the thyroid gland can become inflamed during pregnancy. In this case, thyroiditis, regardless of its form, can have a negative impact on health expectant mother, and on general development her baby. It is very important to identify the disease in time and begin its treatment.

For this reason, pregnant women are prescribed iodine-containing drugs for preventive purposes. The decision on how to treat inflammation in the thyroid gland if it develops is made solely by the doctor. At the same time, throughout the entire pregnancy, it is necessary to monitor the level of hormones and, at the slightest deviation from the norm, resort to hormonal therapy.

How to relieve thyroiditis

Not only medications, but also traditional medicine help improve the condition of thyroiditis. But before treating inflammation of the thyroid gland using these methods, you need to consult with your doctor, since alternative remedies can only act as additional therapy to the main treatment.

Improve the condition of the thyroid gland and relieve painful sensations Compresses made from wormwood roots help, as well as infusions made from pine buds and seaweed.

Conclusion

Ignoring signs of inflammatory processes in the thyroid gland can lead to the development of complications such as infertility, depression, atherosclerosis and other serious diseases.

Timely treatment can not only avoid the development of complications, but also completely restore the functions of the thyroid gland. Lifelong use of hormonal medications can improve the quality and life expectancy of autoimmune thyroiditis.