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ThyroidChange

Is Hashimoto's to Blame for Your Depression and Arthritis?

2/27/2017

2 Comments

 
Is Hashimoto's to Blame for Your Depression and Arthritis?
by Michelle Santonastaso
ThyroidChange Guest Writer and Hashimoto's Patient


Two studies released their findings that are significant for patients with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, an organ-specific autoimmune disease which attacks the thyroid gland. This disease was linked to a greater risk for the development of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and an increased report of symptoms of depression. 
Researchers seemingly linked Hashimoto’s and RA defining patients with Hashimoto's as "more susceptible" to RA. The article also finds that patients taking thyroxine had DOUBLE the risk of non-RA arthritis. These links were found on the genetic level; therefore, Hashimoto's shares the same alleles as RA, which means that they appear on the same link in the genetic chain. 

The article reports that early RA should be ruled out when Hashimoto’s patients report joint pain. Read more here.

Although some may be upset to learn of this predisposition, there are others who are finding relief and understanding with this answer in their individual complex health puzzle. It is great that science is continuing to investigate autoimmune diseases.

In an effort to determine the effectiveness of hypothyroidism treatment, German researchers examined patient responses to highly strategic questions regarding mood and other quality of life indicators. The hypothyroid patients were considered "adequately treated on thyroxine" and their results were compared to the answers of "healthy individuals." IF the answers were statistically similar, the study would have concluded that treatment is effective, however, this was not the case.

This study found that patients with a TSH in the high end of “normal” reported more symptoms including tiredness, higher depression, and reduced well-being. Patients diagnosed with Hashimoto’s reported symptoms of depression at higher rates. Read more here.

All in all, we should be very excited by these results. Patients, who have Hashimoto's and are treated with thyroxine, perhaps will be diagnosed with RA sooner and begin treatment sooner which may slow the progression. The second study is further proof that your lingering symptoms are not “in your head” and should NOT be dismissed. 

What do YOU think? If you have Hashimoto’s, do you think you have more depressive symptoms than other thyroid patients? Or better yet, do you struggle with depressive symptoms? As for the connection to RA… not surprising, but good to know. Did you know that those with autoimmune disease have a proven predisposition towards other autoimmune diseases? 



About the Author
Picture
Michelle Santonastaso is a Hashimoto's patient and was one of the co-founders of ThyroidChange. As an instructor in the field of communication and as a mother, Michelle believes continuing education is the key to improving care for all thyroid patients. With her background in speech, interpersonal communication, and healthcare administration, Michelle harnesses her training with an aim to strengthen the voice of ThyroidChange and to maximize its reach. 

2 Comments
Erin
5/5/2017 08:22:27 am

This is infuriating to read, inasmuch as I was diagnosed over two years ago with Hashimotos. I have continued to feel terrible even though my meds have been changed time and time again. In the meantime, the fatigue(Worst symptom), aches and pain in my joints, swelling has continued. My patient chart is littered with neck, ankle, knees, back complaints where I was given steroids and told to stretch. I did have one doctor send me for xrays of my neck which showed degeneration in my neck. I told them that Hashimotos is usually linked with other auto-immune diseases. I finally saw a new doctor for my knees. I can hardly climb stairs, and the noise they make is profoundly embarrassing. I have had serious swelling, weakness, and low grade fevers for two years. Well guess what! I was finally tested for RA, and I was diagnosed with sero-positive RA. My CCP was 250, and my CRP was 25.2. I also tested positive for a lupus marker. I have my first specialist apt on June 2. How much damage has been done in two years without aggressive treatment? High CCP (Sero-positive) is usually linked to a more aggressive disease path. Make them test you. I have good insurance and could afford it, and they still blew me off. Good Luck to all going through this.

Reply
Carolyn Wagner
2/27/2018 08:25:07 pm

I have had Hashimoto's for 4 years now and have started having terrible pains and swelling in both knees. This article was very informative, now I know I should see my doctor and not dismiss my symptoms.

Reply



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