<P> Hashimoto's thyroiditis is thought to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors . Risk factors include a family history of the condition and having another autoimmune disease . Diagnosis is confirmed with blood tests for TSH, T4, and antithyroid antibodies . Other conditions that can produce similar symptoms include Graves' disease and nontoxic nodular goiter . </P> <P> Hashimoto's thyroiditis, regardless of whether or not hypothyroidism is present, can be treated with levothyroxine . If hypothyroidism is not present some may recommend no treatment while others may treat to try to reduce the size of the goiter . Those affected should avoid eating large amounts of iodine; however, sufficient iodine is required especially during pregnancy . Surgery is rarely required to treat the goiter . </P> <P> Hashimoto's thyroiditis affects about 5% of the population at some point in their life . It typically begins between the ages of 30 and 50 and is much more common in women than men . Rates of disease appear to be increasing . It was first described by the Japanese physician Hakaru Hashimoto in 1912 . In 1957 it was recognized as an autoimmune disorder . </P> <P> There are many symptoms that are attributed to Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Hashimoto's disease . The most common symptoms include the following: fatigue, weight gain, pale or puffy face, feeling cold, joint and muscle pain, constipation, dry and thinning hair, heavy menstrual flow or irregular periods, depression, panic disorder, a slowed heart rate, and problems getting pregnant and maintaining pregnancy . </P>

Where did the name hashimoto disease come from