evidence: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a common autoimmune condition that affects your thyroid gland, leading to various symptoms and potential complications. Hashimoto’s is also the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States. Understanding the different stages of Hashimoto’s can be crucial for effective management and treatment. By recognizing the signs and symptoms associated with each stage, you can work closely with your healthcare providers to optimize your care and improve your quality of life. Let’s explore the stages of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis to help you identify where you may be in your journey with this condition. At this first stage, the main characteristic is an increased risk of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or other autoimmune diseases due to a genetic predisposition. At this stage, your thyroid will function normally, and your thyroid levels, including the thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibody test used to diagnose Hashimoto’s, are all likely to be normal. [...] Other autoimmune conditions that Hashimoto’s patients may develop include lupus, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis. These conditions, like Hashimoto’s, involve the immune system attacking healthy tissues in the body, leading to various symptoms and complications.