Definition & Meaning of "Hashimoto's disease"

What is "Hashimoto's disease"?

Hashimoto's disease, also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck and produces hormones that controls metabolism. This attack leads to inflammation and damage to the thyroid, resulting in an underactive thyroid gland, known as hypothyroidism. Symptoms of Hashimoto's disease can include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, dry skin, and constipation. Treatment typically involves taking artificial thyroid hormone medication to replace the hormones that the thyroid gland is no longer able to produce.