Postpartum thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland that can occur after giving birth, causing variable symptoms such as weight changes, fatigue, and anxiety. Women with a history of thyroid problems, type I diabetes, and autoimmune diseases are at higher risk. Treatment involves medication to control thyroid hormones until the inflammation resolves. It’s important for new mothers to speak to a doctor if they have any health concerns.
Postpartum thyroiditis is an inflammation of the thyroid gland that can occur two to six months after giving birth. This inflammation is painless, meaning a woman will not notice any swelling or irritation around her thyroid gland. Postpartum thyroiditis can lead to both an overactive and underactive thyroid, which means symptoms are variable. This condition can be treated with medications used to control thyroid hormones until the inflammation resolves.
The causes of postpartum thyroiditis are unclear. Women with a history of thyroid problems, women with type I diabetes, and women with autoimmune diseases appear to be at higher risk. For women who have had postpartum thyroiditis in the past, the chances of having it again are very high. All of these risk factors can lead a doctor to closely monitor a postpartum patient for any signs of postpartum thyroiditis, but women without a history of these problems are also at risk and are sometimes diagnosed late.
Women with postpartum thyroiditis may experience weight changes, fatigue, rapid heart rate, anxiety, sensitivity to extreme temperatures, nervousness, and water retention. When the thyroid is overactive, symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heart rate, and anxiety are more common, while an underactive thyroid can cause weight gain, a puffy face, and sensitivity to cold. Unfortunately, many of these symptoms are common in new mothers, who often feel tired and stressed, and are sometimes confused with postpartum depression, a serious condition that requires a very different treatment approach.
Postpartum thyroiditis can be identified by taking a blood sample to check levels of thyroid hormones. If hormones are too high, drugs may be given to block them. If levels are too low, a woman can take supplemental hormones to make up for the hormones her thyroid is not producing. Periodic blood tests may be used to see if thyroid function has returned to normal. Postpartum thyroiditis usually eventually resolves with treatment, although some women experience permanent changes that require lifelong supplemental hormones.
It can be difficult for new mothers to remember to take care of themselves because they are worried about the baby. However, it’s important for new mothers to stay as healthy as possible and speak to a doctor if they have any health concerns. Poor health makes it difficult to care for a baby and can interfere with breastfeeding and other activities in which a mother might want the opportunity to engage.
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