What is thyroiditis and how is it a cause of hyperthyroidism?
Thyroiditis is inflammation of the thyroid gland. It generally occurs after a viral illness (which is known as subacute thyroiditis) or a pregnancy (postpartum thyroiditis). No specific virus or bacteria has been identified as causing the condition. This condition is temporary, but runs through a cycle of about six to three months. First, the thyroid will release too much thyroid hormone, resulting in hyperthyroidism. Then, because the thyroid gland is depleted of the hormone, too little thyroid hormone is released, resulting in hypothyroidism. Diagnosis of thyroiditis is usually made by means of a thyroid scan, as discussed above. Thyroiditis will reveal itself because the thyroid will take up very little of the RAI. Thyroiditis is rare as a cause for hyperthyroidism. Because it is largely self-curing, patients are usually only given beta-blocker for relief of symptoms (See Part 3 of the series), rather than any additional treatment. They may also be given anti-inflammatory medicine,
