Hashimoto’s Disease: When Your Immune System Slows You Down

5. Complications of Hashimoto's Disease

When Hashimoto’s disease goes untreated, it can lead to complications over time. One rare but serious issue is myxedema, which causes severe slowing of body functions and may lead to drowsiness, low body temperature, and, in extreme cases, coma. This condition is uncommon and usually preventable with appropriate treatment. More often, people develop a goiter—an enlarged thyroid gland—that may cause a feeling of tightness in the throat or make swallowing uncomfortable. Hashimoto’s can also raise the risk of heart conditions, including high cholesterol and heart failure, particularly if thyroid hormone levels stay low for an extended period. Other possible complications include anemia, reduced libido, fertility issues, and a higher risk of birth defects during pregnancy if the condition isn’t managed properly.

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