Where is the best place to perform moxibustion for thyroiditis?

Written by Zhang Li
Endocrinology
Updated on September 14, 2024
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Thyroiditis is relatively common in clinical practice, but we have not yet found that moxibustion directly helps with thyroiditis, so we do not recommend using moxibustion for treatment. Especially for types of thyroiditis that may cause an increase in thyroid hormone release, such as the acute phase of subacute thyroiditis. If moxibustion is applied directly near the thyroid region, it could potentially cause an increase in thyroid hormone release, exacerbating existing symptoms and hindering recovery. When we suffer from thyroiditis, we should choose appropriate treatment plans according to different types. For autoimmune thyroiditis, we can use treatments that regulate immunity, provide symptomatic relief, and supplement or replace hormone levels. Some painless thyroiditis may only require regular follow-ups. For cases of thyroiditis that also involve thyroid enlargement, treatment options like iodine-131 or surgery can be considered depending on the functional status.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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How is thyroiditis treated?

The treatment of thyroiditis begins first with ensuring adequate rest and avoiding strenuous physical activities. Secondly, if the patient experiences symptoms such as fever and neck pain, anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications can be administered, such as celecoxib and indomethacin. Thirdly, if neck pain is particularly severe, integration with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments can be beneficial. In TCM, modifications of Xiao Chai Hu Tang can be used to clear heat and detoxify. At home, throat-soothing and pain-relieving medicines can be used, and locally applied Chinese herbal plasters can help reduce nodules and alleviate pain. If symptoms like fever and neck pain occur, it is essential to visit a hospital promptly for treatment under the guidance of a doctor.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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Does thyroiditis cause a sore throat?

Thyroiditis often refers to subacute thyroiditis, a disease caused by a viral infection. The most common symptoms include sore throat, fever, pain in the front of the neck, palpitations, and weight loss. Therefore, many people might think it is a throat inflammation and initially visit an otolaryngologist. In such cases, it is essential to promptly check thyroid function and perform a thyroid ultrasound, as well as examine erythrocyte sedimentation rate and complete blood count. If these symptoms occur, it is important to seek timely treatment from an endocrinology specialist.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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How to check for thyroiditis?

Thyroiditis is a general term. Clinically, the most common type is subacute thyroiditis, and another is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, which are two different diseases. For subacute thyroiditis, the symptoms include fever, neck pain, and throat discomfort. Generally, the first step is to check thyroid function to see if there is hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. The second step is to suggest antibody tests, including anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies. The third suggestion is to conduct a routine blood test and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Fourth, a thyroid ultrasound is recommended. If necessary, a thyroid fine-needle aspiration may be performed for a definitive diagnosis. If it's Hashimoto's thyroiditis, which is an autoimmune disease, a specific antibody, TPOAB or anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody, is used for diagnosis.

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Written by Chen Xie
Endocrinology
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Is thyroiditis contagious?

Thyroiditis, based on its cause, can be classified into subtypes such as subacute thyroiditis and autoimmune thyroiditis. Subacute thyroiditis is primarily caused by viral infections leading to the destruction of the thyroid follicular structure, and it is not contagious. Autoimmune thyroiditis primarily involves the presence of autoantibodies within the body, which lead to the destruction of thyroid follicles and consequently to the apoptosis of thyroid cells. This cause is also non-contagious. Therefore, thyroiditis cannot be transmitted, but it does have genetic susceptibility. For patients whose parents have thyroiditis, their children may also have thyroiditis.

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Written by Chen Xie
Endocrinology
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Does thyroiditis cause fever?

The causes of thyroiditis can be divided into subacute thyroiditis and Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Subacute thyroiditis is mainly due to viral infections, with apparent tenderness in the thyroid area, and this type of subacute thyroiditis can cause fever. Its treatment mainly involves non-steroidal medications, or steroids can be used during inflammation, The course of subacute thyroiditis is self-limiting and can be cured, whereas autoimmune thyroiditis is caused by autoantibodies that destroy the thyroid follicular cells, and this type of thyroiditis does not cause fever. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor)