Subacute Thyroiditiscute thyroiditis is a condition that involves an inflammation of the thyroid gland that is usually followed up by and upper respiratory infection then subsides. Subacute thyroiditis is known to be an uncommon condition that is caused by a viral infection on the thyroid gland. Subacute thyroiditis often occurs after a viral infection on the upper respiratory tract. Subacute thyroiditis is found to be caused by influenza virus, mumps virus and other respiratory viruses. The gradual or the sudden onset of pain in the thyroid gland region is the most known feature of a sub acute thyroiditis. The enlargement of the thyroid gland is painful and may persist for weeks or even months. This condition is normally accompanied by a fever. Along with this condition, difficulty in swallowing and hoarseness may also develop. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid; excess thyroid hormones) such as rapid heartbeat or palpitation, nervousness and heat intolerance may be present during the early stage of subacute thyroiditis. Symptoms of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid; inadequate thyroid hormones) such as constipation, cold intolerance and fatigue may follow through at a later stage of subacute thyroiditis. Middle-aged women are more prone to subacute thyroiditis especially those with recent symptoms of viral respiratory tract infection.

Subacute Thyroiditis Symptoms

Common subacute thyroiditis symptom is the pain in the neck. Sometimes the pain may spread throughout the jaw and even in the ears. Painful enlargement of the thyroid gland may be present for weeks and can even last for months. Other subacute thyroiditis symptoms include difficulty in swallowing, fatigue, hoarseness, weakness, fever and tenderness when gentle pressure is applied on the neck area just around the thyroid gland. However, during the early stage of subacute thyroiditis, one may have hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid; excess thyroid hormones) symptoms such as diarrhea, heat intolerance, palpitations, sweating, tremor, weight loss and nervousness. At subacute thyroiditis progresses, one may have hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid; inadequate thyroid hormones) symptoms such as constipation, cold intolerance and fatigue. The thyroid gland functions usually go back to normal. In rare cases, hypothyroidism may become permamnent.

Subacute Thyroiditis Treatment

The purpose of subacute thyroiditis treatment is to reduce the stinging pain, inflammation and also treat hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid; excess thyroid hormones) if it occurs eventually. Aspirin and ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatory medication are used to control the pain. Steroid may be used as subacute thyroiditis treatment in more serious cases to control inflammation. If hyperthyroidism arises, it is treated with a class of medication called beta blockers.  It is not effective or helpful to treating hyperthyroidism with anti-thyroid drugs or thionamides.

Subacute Thyroiditis Causes

Subacute thyroiditis is caused by a viral infection. Subacute thyroiditis arises after a viral infection occurs on the upper respiratory tract such as mumps and influenza. This condition may last for months if left untreated. Possible complications of subacute thyroiditis include permanent hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid; inadequate thyroid hormones) and recurrence of subacute thyroiditis after treatment. It is best to seek medical help if subacute thyroiditis is suspected for proper care and treatment to be provided.