Your immune system may be attacking the thyroid gland due to these reasons | Health News

He adds, “In some patients who are genetically susceptible, something in the environment like stress, a viral infection like Epstein Barr virus, or radiation exposure can trigger your body to start attacking this gland.”

As the thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and overall health, understanding these potential triggers is essential for both prevention and early intervention.

Chronic stress and its contribution to the immune system attacking the thyroid gland

Dr Palleti Siva Karthik Reddy, MBBS, MD, General Medicine, consultant physician, Bengaluru, says, “When you’re stressed, your body pumps out cortisol, the ‘stress hormone.’ Elevated cortisol levels over time can disrupt the delicate balance of the immune system, leading to overactivation and increased inflammation.”

If you have a genetic predisposition to autoimmune thyroid disorders, he adds, chronic stress can act as a trigger, initiating or exacerbating the immune attack.

Common viral infections that have been linked to autoimmune thyroid disorders

Several viral infections have been implicated in the development or worsening of autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease, says Dr Reddy. 

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): This common virus, which causes infectious mononucleosis, has been linked to thyroid dysfunction. Research suggests that EBV can mimic thyroid cells, confusing the immune system and leading it to attack both the virus and the thyroid gland.

Other Viruses: Other suspects include Coxsackievirus, mumps virus, human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), and parvovirus B19. While the exact mechanisms vary, these viruses may trigger inflammation, activate dormant immune cells, or alter thyroid cell proteins, all of which can contribute to an autoimmune response.

Dr Reddy stresses, “It’s important to note that not everyone who contracts these viruses will develop thyroid problems. The risk is likely higher in individuals with a genetic predisposition or other underlying factors.”

Elevated cortisol levels over time can disrupt the delicate balance of the immune system, leading to overactivation and increased inflammation. (Source: Freepik)

Mechanism by which radiation exposure leads to autoimmune thyroid conditions

Radiation exposure, Dr Reddy mentions, particularly to the head and neck area, can damage thyroid cells and trigger an autoimmune response. “Radiation can directly damage thyroid cells, causing them to release cellular components that the immune system may misidentify as foreign invaders.”

The damaged thyroid cells release inflammatory signals, activating immune cells and triggering an autoimmune attack.  Individuals with certain genetic variations may be more vulnerable to radiation-induced thyroid autoimmunity.

The level of radiation exposure required to trigger autoimmune thyroid disease is still debated, he adds. “However, studies have shown an increased risk in individuals exposed to radiation therapy for head and neck cancers, nuclear accidents, or environmental contamination.”

Early signs and symptoms that indicate the immune system is attacking the thyroid gland

Early signs and symptoms of autoimmune thyroid disease can be subtle and easily overlooked, says Dr Reddy. They may include:

*Fatigue: Feeling tired even after adequate sleep

*Weight Changes: Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight

*Mood Swings:  Increased irritability, anxiety, or depression

*Hair Loss:  Thinning hair or hair loss

*Dry Skin:  Dry, itchy skin, especially on the elbows and knees

*Cold Intolerance: Feeling cold even in warm temperatures

*Constipation: Difficulty passing stools or infrequent bowel movements

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor for further evaluation.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.