Health Risk Assessment
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Learn Your RiskWhat are the Symptoms of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Flare Ups?
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid and can lead to hypothyroidism. The symptoms of a Hashimoto’s flare-up can vary from person to person and people with the disease can experience changes in their symptoms over time. Here, we’ll outline the causes, symptoms, and management of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis flare-ups.
What Is a Hashimoto’s Flare-Up?
A Hashimoto’s flare-up is a period of worsening and intense symptoms due to an added stressor on your immune system. Because these flare-ups can be different in different people, they can present themselves as numerous symptoms with moderate intensity, or fewer symptoms with high intensity.
How Long Does a Hashimoto’s Flare-Up Last?
Symptoms of a Hashimoto’s flare-up can develop within hours and often last for several days, sometimes stretching into a few weeks. Individual duration varies based on triggers and severity, so if you’re wondering how long does Hashimoto’s flare-up last for you, track symptoms and consult your provider if they persist or worsen. If you experience a severe Hashimoto's flare up or prolonged symptoms, contact your Baptist Health provider immediately.
What Are the Symptoms of a Hashimoto’s Flare-Up
While symptoms can vary by person, there are many reported signs of a Hashimoto’s flare-up, including:
- Fatigue
- Cold intolerance
- Constipation
- Dry skin
- Puffy face
- Muscle aches
- Brain fog
- Insomnia
- Low mood or depression
- Irregular or heavy periods
- Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
Can a Flare-Up Cause Hypothyroidism?
It’s also important to note that a Hashimoto’s flare-up can cause your body to go into a hyperthyroid state, which means your thyroid is overactive. If this happens, you can experience symptoms of hyperthyroidism, including:
- Fatigue
- Heat intolerance
- Irritability
- Rapid heartbeat
- Sleep problems
- Anxiety
What Causes Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Flare-Ups?
Sometimes, it’s hard to distinguish between a Hashimoto’s flare-up and a flare-up of another autoimmune disease. Many emotional and physical things can trigger a Hashimoto’s flare-up, like the ones listed below:
Physical Triggers
- Lack of sleep
- Viral or bacterial infection
- Hormonal imbalance
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Medications and supplements
Emotional Triggers
- A significant change, like a move or a career shift
- Depression
- Anxiety
How to Manage Flare-Ups from Hashimoto’s
Treating and managing your Hashimoto’s flare-ups is possible, but it means making some targeted lifestyle adjustments—especially around known triggers. Talk with your doctor about your symptoms and which changes are best for you. Here are some approaches to try during or around flare-ups:
Eat Fresh, Whole Foods
Inflammation can intensify autoimmune activity during a flare. Emphasize an anti-inflammatory diet for Hashimoto's that features plenty of vegetables and leafy greens, minimally processed whole foods, and high-quality proteins, while limiting added sugars and ultra-processed snacks that may worsen symptoms.
Watch Your Iodine Levels
Iodine intake can influence thyroid autoimmunity in some people. During a flare, avoid excess iodine from heavily processed foods or supplements unless your provider advises otherwise, and aim for a consistent, moderate intake rather than sudden increases.
Take Supplements
Targeted nutrients may support your thyroid and immune balance during flare-ups. Ask your provider about checking and optimizing selenium and vitamin D and only use supplements that your clinician recommends for your situation.
Reduce Your Stress
Stress is a common Hashimoto’s flare-up trigger for flare-ups and can make symptoms feel worse. Prioritize stress management with restorative sleep, light movement (such as walks), time offline from social media, and supportive connections with friends or a counselor.
When to See a Doctor for Hashimoto’s Flare-Ups
You’ll want to establish yourself with an endocrinologist to help treat this is autoimmune disease. if left untreated, hypothyroidism caused by Hashimoto disease can lead to serious complications to include Goiter, which can interfere with swallowing or breathing or even heart failure.
Learn More About Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis with Baptist Health
Understanding Hashimoto’s and how to treat flare-ups all begins with having a discussion with your physician. If you believe you’re experiencing symptoms of a Hashimoto’s flare-up or would like to learn more, find your nearest Baptist Health provider using our provider directory. Call 1.844.6BAPTIST to schedule an appointment, and download a patient packet today.
If this is a true medical emergency, please dial 911.
FAQ
What does a Hashimoto’s flare-up feel like?
People often report sudden or increasing fatigue, brain fog, sensitivity to cold, muscle or joint aches, mood changes, and neck or throat discomfort. You may also notice worsened concentration and overall sluggishness during a flare.
Can stress cause a flare-up?
Yes. Emotional or physical stress can trigger or amplify autoimmune activity, making a flare more likely. Building daily stress-reduction habits can help reduce flare frequency and intensity.
What does a Hashimoto's flare-up look like?
From the outside, a flare can be hard to see, but you may notice signs like slowed pace, bundled clothing due to cold sensitivity, or increased rest breaks. Internally, many people feel more fatigued, foggy, and achy than usual.
Can diet help prevent flare-ups?
For many people, a nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet and consistent iodine intake help reduce triggers. Limiting added sugars and ultra-processed foods may also decrease the frequency and severity of flares.
Next Steps and Useful Resources
