# Subacute Thyroiditis

URL: https://thethyroidologist.com/conditions/subacute-thyroiditis/
Section: Conditions
Last medically reviewed: 2025-11-15

> Subacute thyroiditis is a painful, temporary inflammation of the thyroid. Its phases, symptoms and why it usually resolves without surgery.

Subacute thyroiditis — also called De Quervain thyroiditis — is a painful inflammation of the thyroid gland that typically follows a viral illness. It causes a predictable sequence of thyroid hormone changes as the gland becomes inflamed and then recovers.
It is self-limiting in most people, but the temporary hormone swings can be uncomfortable and need managing.

## The three phases

In the first phase, inflammation causes stored thyroid hormone to leak into the bloodstream, producing thyrotoxicosis with a tender, enlarged gland — but the radioactive iodine uptake is low because the gland is not overproducing.
This is followed by a hypothyroid phase as hormone stores are depleted, and finally a recovery phase in which most people return to normal thyroid function.

## Symptoms and diagnosis

The classic symptom is a painful, tender neck swelling, sometimes with pain radiating to the jaw or ear, along with fever and malaise. Blood tests show raised inflammatory markers and the characteristic hormone pattern.
A low radioactive iodine uptake distinguishes it from Graves’ disease, which is important because the treatments are completely different.

## Treatment

Treatment is supportive: anti-inflammatory painkillers, and sometimes a short course of steroids for severe pain. Beta-blockers ease the thyrotoxic symptoms. Antithyroid drugs are not used, because the gland is not overproducing hormone.
Levothyroxine may be given temporarily during the hypothyroid phase if symptoms are significant, but it is often possible to stop it once the gland recovers.

## Frequently asked questions

### Is subacute thyroiditis permanent?

No — most people recover normal thyroid function within months. A minority are left with lasting hypothyroidism and need long-term treatment.

### Is it contagious?

No — it is not contagious. It is thought to follow a viral infection in a susceptible person but cannot be passed to others.

### Will I need surgery?

No — surgery is not used for subacute thyroiditis. It is treated with anti-inflammatory medication and symptom control.

## Disclaimer

The content on this website is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your specific condition.

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