Schilddrüsenentzündung nach der Schwangerschaft (Postpartale Thyreoiditis)

During pregnancy, the functioning of the immune system, and thus the appearance of autoimmune processes, is suppressed. A few weeks after childbirth, immune function recovers, sometimes even becoming overactive.

Postpartum thyroiditis, which occurs at a frequency of 8-10% after pregnancy, is probably the initial manifestation of autoimmune thyroiditis. The thyroid gland hyperactivity that occurs in this context between the 4th and 8th week after delivery can last for six to nine months. This is followed in 70% of cases by temporary hypofunction, and finally by spontaneous healing. However, in 30% of cases, the hypothyroidism persists and requires treatment by medication.

 

Complaints:

Restlessness, rapid heartbeat, fatigue.

The complaints are often mild and are attributed to the general strain of pregnancy. They are therefore usually not recognized as the beginning of a thyroid disease. Pronounced complaints occasionally lead to the corresponding diagnostic work and therapy.

 

Therapy:

With pronounced cardiovascular complaints due to an overactive thyroid, the administration of beta-blockers (Inderal) may relieve the unwanted effects of the thyroid hormones on the heart. On the other hand, anti-thyroid medications such as Thiamazole and PTU have no effect on the hyperfunction associated with infection. This hyperthyroidism is treated by replacement of the missing thyroid hormone through medication (Levothyroxine).