Postpartum Thyroiditis
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.
Postpartum thyroiditis is a disease that causes your thyroid gland to become inflamed after you give birth. The thyroid gland is located at the front of your neck. The thyroid produces hormones that help control your body functions, such as temperature and heart rate. Postpartum thyroiditis can develop right after or within a year after delivery.
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DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) or have someone call if:
- You have sudden chest pain or trouble breathing.
- You have a seizure.
Return to the emergency department if:
- Your heart is racing.
- You feel like you are going to faint.
Call your doctor if:
- You have a fever.
- You run out of thyroid medicine before your next scheduled refill.
- You feel nervous and restless.
- You have pain or swelling in your muscles.
- Your voice becomes hoarse, or you have itchiness in your throat.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- Medicines may be given to help raise or lower your thyroid hormone level. You may also need medicines to treat your signs and symptoms, such as fast heartbeat and nervousness.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Eat a variety of healthy foods:
Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. This will help you maintain a healthy weight. Ask if you need to be on a special diet.
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Drink liquids as directed:
Ask your healthcare provider how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.
Exercise as directed:
Ask your healthcare provider about the best exercise plan for you. Start slowly and do more as you get stronger. Exercise can help give you energy and decrease your symptoms.
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Follow up with your doctor in 4 to 8 weeks or as directed:
You may need to return regularly to have your thyroid level checked. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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