Thyroiditis: Causes, Types, Symptoms, and Treatments

3. Phases

Many cases of thyroiditis progress through three phases. The thyrotoxic phase is when thyroid becomes inflamed and releases excess hormones. While this is similar to hyperthyroidism, the gland is not truly overactive in this phase. After a period of releasing too many hormones, the thyroid enters the hypothyroid phase. In this phase, the gland does not have enough hormones to release, causing hypothyroidism. The third and final phase is the euthyroid phase, where hormones return to their typical levels. This phase can be temporary or permanent.