Hashimoto’s Unveiled: Navigating the Complex Web of Inflammation

A host of genetic and environmental components contribute to the development of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and the results of the condition are manifold. 

It can be difficult and frustrating to address a problem that has so many causes and effects. 

One of the outcomes of Hashimoto’s is inflammation, which results in a host of negative symptoms. If you can address the inflammation, it may be possible to diminish the symptoms associated with it.

At HealthierU we are well-acquainted with Hashimoto’s and how it affects the body. 



In this article, we help you understand how inflammation is linked to the condition, and let you know specific things you can do to counteract Hashimoto’s inflammation and improve your well-being.

Table of Contents

Yes, Hashimoto's thyroiditis causes inflammation. 

In autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s, the body's immune system, which is designed to protect against foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses, mistakenly identifies its own tissues as threats and attacks them. In this case, the immune system targets the thyroid gland.



As the thyroid gland is attacked, its function is disrupted and may lead to hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism, in turn, leads to systemic inflammation — in addition to the focused inflammation against the thyroid. A chain of events involving an elevated proportion of T4 and T3 (the thyroid hormones) causes immune response activation, even when no illness is involved. 

Fatigue differs from tiredness in that resting does not relieve it. Someone with chronic fatigue regularly feels drained, exhausted, and low in energy. 

They may be averse to physical exertion and just want to sleep constantly. Fatigue over time can interfere with memory, judgment, and the ability to concentrate.

Hashimoto’s, as a major cause of hypothyroidism, leads to low thyroid hormone and thus lower metabolism. A decrease in heart rate and cardiac output can result in feelings of fatigue.



Difficulty sleeping due to sensitivity to cold, as well as joint and muscle pain (other symptoms of an underactive thyroid caused by Hashimoto’s), can also be caused by fatigue.

An estimated 30% of patients with hypothyroidism suffer from headaches.

The cause hasn’t been determined but evidence indicates that people who chronically experience headaches or migraines have a greater risk of developing hypothyroidism. It is unclear whether having chronic headaches or migraines causes a predisposition to hypothyroidism, or if thyroid issues make someone more susceptible to headaches. 

On the other hand, sleep issues caused by hypothyroidism can contribute to headaches and brain fog, perhaps in association with the cognitive impairments listed above.

Chronic inflammation can lead to brain fog by causing:

• Oxidative stress: Thyroid hormone helps regulate antioxidant levels in normal cases, but in patients with Hashimoto’s, this protective function is not performed sufficiently. The brain is impacted if it doesn’t have adequate antioxidant defense against free radicals. 
• Disruption in connectivity between neurons: Microglial cells support neuron metabolism and synapses, and help degrade dead/dying neurons and debris. When the brain is chronically inflamed, the microglial cells don’t perform these functions as they should. The result is inappropriate development of neuronal connections and even more rapid brain degeneration, which manifests as brain fog. 
  

Patients with Hashimoto’s inflammation may have swollen, prominent lymph nodes in the area around their thyroid. 



This may be due to the inflammation chronically affecting the body of Hashimoto’s patients, or possibly as a result of thyroid cancer development associated with the disease.

Among patients with Hashimoto’s, 30-40% have fibromyalgia, a chronic condition that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain that can interfere with mood and sleep. Fibromyalgia is not an inflammatory condition, but having Hashimoto’s seems to be associated with the disease. 

Chronic inflammation is a major factor in muscle and joint pain in Hashimoto’s patients, resulting in: 



• Tenderness
• Stiffness
• Fatigue

There are many skin conditions associated with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Some are a result of low thyroid function, while others are caused by an elevated inflammatory response, and include:



• Dryness or thickening of the skin
• Hives
• Acne
• Pale or discolored skin on the extremities
• Increased susceptibility to fungal skin infections
  

A leaky gut, or increased intestinal permeability, appears to play a role in the development of autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. It is also possible that the disorder may be the cause of a leaky gut. 

The intestinal lining is responsible for absorbing nutrients and acting as a barrier against the absorption of bacteria, undigested material, and toxins. When the lining is inflamed, it becomes porous and allows these substances into the bloodstream. This “leakage” triggers an immune response or inflammation.

Symptoms of this condition of the intestinal lining are not always obvious and may include a combination of:

• Brain fog
• Fatigue
• Joint pain
• Food allergies
• Mood and memory problems



If you have Hashimoto’s disease and continue to experience these symptoms, contact HealthierU today for an in-depth consultation as a first step to improving your digestive health.

If you have hypothyroidism due to Hashimoto's, taking thyroid hormone replacement medications, such as levothyroxine, can help stabilize thyroid hormone levels and potentially reduce Hashimoto’s inflammation.

Adopt an anti-inflammatory diet that includes whole, nutrient-dense foods as opposed to inflammatory foods, such as refined carbohydrates, fried food, soda and juice, red meat, and processed meat.

Read labels carefully to be sure you aren’t consuming hidden sugars (evaporated cane juice, ingredients ending in -ose) or trans fats (hydrogenated oils).

Anti-inflammatory foods help reduce inflammation because they contain antioxidants, polyphenols, and other anti-inflammatory compounds. Some of these foods include:

• Tomatoes
• Olive oil
• Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and collards
• Nuts, such as walnuts and almonds
• Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines
• Fruits, especially strawberries, blueberries, oranges, and cherries
• Coffee, tea, and dark chocolate
• Gut-healthy foods containing: 
• Probiotics, or live bacteria and yeasts that promote gut health, such as:
• Yogurt
• Kefir
• Kimchi
• Sauerkraut
• Tempeh
• Prebiotics, or foods that help healthy bacteria thrive, such as:
• Bananas
• Asparagus
• Garlic
• Leeks and onions
• Oats
• Cocoa



Focusing on these foods while excluding inflammatory foods can help you avoid triggering a Hashimoto’s attack, during which you experience the symptoms of the disease but at a much higher intensity than usual.

Some individuals with Hashimoto's find relief from inflammation in the gut as well as reduced thyroid antibodies by adopting a gluten-free diet. There is evidence suggesting a link between gluten sensitivity and autoimmune thyroid disorders. 



A healthy gut is important for proper absorption of your thyroid medication, which might even make a lower dosage possible. It can also contribute to a decrease in symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, depression, and anxiety.

Ensure you are getting adequate nutrients, especially those important for thyroid health or that may have anti-inflammatory effects. Some important nutrients include:

• Vitamins A, C, D, and E
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Curcumin
• Selenium
• Zinc
• Resveratrol, a compound found in red grapes
  

Chronic stress can exacerbate inflammation because it triggers the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines to fight off perceived invaders, even if those are only psychological or emotional stressors. 

Furthermore, cortisol (the stress hormone) exists at higher levels in individuals under chronic stress, leading to more inflammation. Managing stress can reverse this effect. 

Stress-reducing techniques include:

• Meditation
• Yoga
• Deep breathing exercises
• Relaxing activities
• Counseling and therapy
• Activities that help you unburden yourself, such as journaling or talking with a close friend
  

Prioritize good sleep hygiene. Lack of sleep can contribute to inflammation and impact overall health. 

Some tips for improving your sleep include:

• Be sure your room is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature.
• Avoid electronic stimulation (phone, computer, TV) at least an hour before bedtime.
• Avoid consuming alcohol, caffeine, or a large meal before bedtime.
• Get plenty of physical activity throughout the day. 
• Have a consistent routine. Go to bed around the same time every night, and avoid sleeping in on weekends because this can throw off the routine.
  

Engage in regular, moderate exercise, as it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. This may be by way of reducing visceral fat mass and a resulting decrease in cytokines secreted by fat tissue. 

Alternatively (or simultaneously), each bout of exercise may trigger the production of hormones that reduce inflammation. Healthcare professionals suggest that 150 minutes of daily aerobic exercise is essential for optimal health.



Consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise routine.

Reduce your intake of processed and sugary foods, which can contribute to inflammation. 

Pay attention to food sensitivities and consider an elimination diet if needed. This means eliminating foods you think may be responsible for inflammation, then slowly reintroducing them and monitoring for any symptoms that occur as a result.



Increase your intake of fiber and foods with a low glycemic index, such as:

• Vegetables
• Nuts and seeds
• Beans and legumes
• Eggs

Consider substituting healthy lower-carb alternatives to sugar (stevia or monk fruit) and flour (almond or coconut flour).

Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties. Include sources of omega-3s into your diet, such as:

• Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel
• Flaxseeds
• Walnuts 
• Fish oil
  

Work with your healthcare provider to monitor your thyroid hormone levels. They’ll be able to adjust your medication dosage if necessary and discuss any symptoms or concerns related to Hashimoto's thyroiditis. 

HealthierU is experienced in treating patients with this condition, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

HealthierU promotes holistic strategies that can help you manage both Hashimoto’s and inflammation. By bringing inflammation under control, you may be able to simplify how you contend with your thyroid condition.

Instead of feeling powerless to get a handle on the various effects of Hashimoto’s, you can find comfort in knowing that many of them fall under the umbrella of inflammation, which can be mitigated in many ways. 

At HealthierU Dr. Donna Sergi will provide guidance specific to your unique case and her professional suggestions for lifestyle modifications are evidence-based.

Schedule your consultation today and put the anxiety to rest as you regain control over your health.