Are you feeling tired, gaining weight, and experiencing hair loss? It could be a sign of Hashimoto's disease. This autoimmune disorder affects the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and damage to the gland. As a result, the thyroid gland can't produce enough hormones, leading to hypothyroidism. To confirm the diagnosis, an endocrinology specialist may recommend a blood test to measure serum TSH levels. Additionally, consuming too much iodine can exacerbate the condition.
Hashimoto's disease, also known as Hashimoto thyroiditis, is an autoimmune syndrome and the most common cause of hormone problems related to the thyroid gland in the United States. The disease was named after Hakaru Hashimoto, a Japanese physician who first described it in 1912. Diagnosis of Hashimoto's disease involves measuring serum TSH levels and is typically managed by specialists in endocrinology.
If you're wondering what causes Hashimoto thyroiditis, a type of thyroid disease and autoimmune disorder, it's still unclear. However, genetics and environmental factors are believed to play a role in thyroid problems.
In this blog post, we'll dive deeper into what Hashimoto's disease, also known as autoimmune thyroiditis, is and how it affects the body. It is a type of autoimmune syndrome that causes low thyroid hormone levels, leading to thyroid problems. We'll also discuss its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options available for managing the condition. So let's get started!
What is the Thyroid Gland?
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck that produces thyroid hormones. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development throughout the body. The thyroid gland works by converting iodine from our diet into two main hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones are then released into the bloodstream and transported to every cell in the body. Hashimoto thyroiditis, also known as Hashimoto disease, is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland. It can be treated with medicine.
Functions of Thyroid Hormones
Thyroid hormones are essential for proper bodily functions, but autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto thyroiditis or Hashimoto disease can affect their production. Medicine is often needed to manage these conditions. Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, affecting weight gain or loss, energy levels, and mood. They also play a significant role in brain development during infancy and childhood.
When there is an underactive thyroid gland, it can lead to low thyroid hormone levels, causing symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression. Hypothyroidism is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can also be caused by Hashimoto thyroiditis or Hashimoto disease. If you suspect you have hypothyroidism, it's important to consult with a nurse or medical professional.
Causes of Enlarged Thyroid
An enlarged thyroid or goiter can be caused by various factors including iodine deficiency, autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto's disease or Graves' disease, or hyperthyroidism. Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune disorder where your immune system attacks your own thyroid gland leading to hypothyroidism while Graves’ disease causes hyperthyroidism by producing too much thyroxine hormone.
In some cases, an enlarged thyroid due to Hashimoto thyroiditis or Hashimoto disease may not cause any symptoms at all. However, if it grows large enough to compress other structures in the neck such as the esophagus or trachea (windpipe), it can cause difficulty swallowing or breathing.
Treatment for Underactive Thyroid Gland
Treatment for an underactive thyroid gland, also known as Hashimoto thyroiditis or Hashimoto disease, typically involves taking levothyroxine to provide enough thyroid hormone to the body and regulate serum TSH levels. Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of T4 that can be taken orally in the form of a pill. It is important to take this medication as prescribed by your doctor and have regular blood tests to monitor your thyroid hormone levels.
Causes and Risk Factors of Hashimoto's Disease
Hashimoto's disease, also known as chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. This condition occurs when the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and damage to the tissue. The exact cause of Hashimoto's disease is not fully understood, but several factors have been identified that can increase the risk of developing this condition.
Common Cause: Autoimmune Response
One of the most common causes of Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune response where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the body. In this case, the immune system targets and attacks cells in the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage to the tissue. This autoimmune response can be triggered by several factors such as genetic predisposition or environmental triggers like exposure to toxins or radiation.
Risk Factors: Women and Age
Hashimoto's disease is more common in women than men, with a female-to-male ratio of 10:1. Women are at higher risk due to hormonal differences between genders; estrogen may play a role in triggering autoimmunity in susceptible individuals. Age plays a significant role in increasing one’s risk for developing this condition. The incidence increases with age and peaks around middle age (40-60 years). Low thyroid hormone may be a symptom of Hashimoto's disease.
Family History: Genetic Predisposition
Family history plays a significant role in determining one’s risk for developing Hashimoto's disease. Individuals with a family history of thyroid disorders or autoimmune diseases are more likely to develop this condition compared to those without any family history. Researchers have identified several genes associated with an increased susceptibility to autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s.
Conditions Associated with Increased Risk
Certain medical conditions are also associated with an increased risk of developing Hashimoto's disease. For example, individuals with type 1 diabetes are more likely to develop other autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto’s due to shared genetic markers between these two conditions. Celiac disease, an autoimmune condition that affects the digestive system, is also associated with an increased risk of developing Hashimoto's disease.
Environmental Factors
In addition to genetic and hormonal factors, environmental triggers may also play a role in the development of Hashimoto's disease. Exposure to radiation or toxins such as pesticides or chemicals can increase the risk of developing thyroid disorders including Hashimoto’s. Smoking is also associated with an increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases including Hashimoto’s.
Symptoms of Hashimoto's Disease
Hashimoto's disease is a type of autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. It occurs when the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and damage to the gland. This can lead to an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism, which means that the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones.
Common Symptoms of Hashimoto's Disease
The symptoms of Hashimoto's disease can vary from person to person and may develop slowly over time. Some people may experience no symptoms at all in the early stages of the disease, while others may have more severe symptoms. Here are some common symptoms associated with Hashimoto's disease:
Fatigue: Feeling tired or exhausted even after getting enough sleep is a common symptom of Hashimoto's disease.
Weight gain: Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight despite following a healthy diet and exercise routine is another common symptom.
Hair loss: Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp, eyebrows, or other parts of the body can be a sign of Hashimoto's disease.
Joint pain: Pain and stiffness in joints, particularly in hands and feet can be caused by inflammation associated with Hashimoto’s disease.
Depression: Feeling down or sad for no apparent reason is another symptom commonly associated with this condition.
Other common symptoms of Hashimoto disease include constipation, dry skin, sensitivity to cold, muscle weakness, and irregular menstrual periods in women.
First Sign of Hashimoto’s Disease
The first sign of Hashimoto’s disease is often an enlarged thyroid gland known as a goiter. The goiter may cause discomfort or difficulty swallowing but usually doesn’t cause any pain. However, not everyone with Hashimoto’s will develop a goiter.
In addition to an enlarged thyroid gland, other early signs of Hashimoto disease include fatigue and unexplained weight gain. These symptoms are often overlooked because they can be attributed to many other factors such as stress, poor diet, or lack of exercise.
Side Effects of Hashimoto's Disease
Aside from the common symptoms mentioned earlier, Hashimoto’s disease can also cause other side effects. These include:
Dry skin: The thyroid gland produces hormones that help regulate the skin's moisture content. When the gland is underactive due to Hashimoto’s disease, it can lead to dry and itchy skin.
Sensitivity to cold: Hypothyroidism caused by Hashimoto’s disease can make you feel cold all the time, even in warm environments.
Muscle weakness: A lack of thyroid hormone can cause muscle weakness and pain in some people.
Constipation: Hypothyroidism caused by Hashimoto’s disease may slow down digestion and cause constipation.
It is important to note that not everyone with Hashimoto's disease will experience all of these symptoms or side effects. Some people may have mild symptoms while others may have more severe ones.
Diagnosing Hashimoto's Disease: Tests and Exams
Blood Tests for Diagnosing Hashimoto's Disease
Blood tests are the primary method used to diagnose Hashimoto's disease. The most commonly used blood tests measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine (T4) levels. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland, which stimulates the thyroid gland to produce hormones that regulate metabolism. In patients with Hashimoto's disease, TSH levels are typically elevated because the immune system attacks and damages the thyroid gland, leading to a decrease in thyroid hormone production.
In addition to TSH and T4 levels, clinical studies have shown that measuring thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) in the blood can also be useful in diagnosing Hashimoto's disease. Patients with Hashimoto's disease often have high levels of TPOAb in their blood, indicating an autoimmune response against their own thyroid tissue.
Ultrasound for Diagnosing Hashimoto's Disease
Ultrasound is another tool that can be used to diagnose Hashimoto's disease. An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of internal organs, including the thyroid gland. This imaging technique can detect changes in the size and appearance of the thyroid gland caused by inflammation or damage from autoimmune attacks.
Researchers have found that combining blood tests with ultrasound can improve the accuracy of diagnosing Hashimoto's disease. For example, a study published in Thyroid Journal found that using both blood tests and ultrasound increased diagnostic accuracy from 74% with blood tests alone to 90% when combined with ultrasound.
Importance of Early Diagnosis for Better Health Outcomes
Diagnosing Hashimoto's disease early is crucial for better health outcomes for patients. If left untreated, this condition can lead to hypothyroidism, a condition where your body doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones needed for proper metabolism regulation.
Early diagnosis of Hashimoto disease allows healthcare providers to start treatment, which typically involves hormone replacement therapy. Hormone replacement therapy replaces the missing thyroid hormones with synthetic hormones that help regulate metabolism and alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression.
Hypothyroidism During Pregnancy: Effects of Hashimoto's Disease
Hypothyroidism during pregnancy is a common complication of Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and damage to the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and development in the body. When the gland is damaged, it can lead to an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism.
How Does Hashimoto's Disease Affect Pregnancy?
Hashimoto's disease can affect pregnancy by causing hypothyroidism in pregnant women. Hypothyroidism during pregnancy can have serious effects on both the mother and the baby. For instance, untreated hypothyroidism during pregnancy can lead to complications such as preeclampsia, miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight.
Furthermore, hypothyroidism during pregnancy, particularly if caused by Hashimoto disease, has been linked to cognitive impairment and developmental delays in children. Studies show that children born to mothers with untreated hypothyroidism due to Hashimoto disease are at higher risk of having lower IQ scores and other developmental problems.
How Is Hypothyroidism from Hashimoto's Disease Treated During Pregnancy?
Pregnant women with Hashimoto's disease should have their thyroid levels monitored regularly to ensure proper treatment. Treatment for hypothyroidism during pregnancy usually involves taking thyroid hormone replacement medication such as levothyroxine.
It is essential for pregnant women with Hashimoto's disease to work closely with their healthcare provider to manage their condition effectively throughout their pregnancy. Women who are already taking levothyroxine before becoming pregnant may need a dosage adjustment since requirements for thyroid hormone increase during pregnancy.
What Happens If I Have Hypothyroidism During Pregnancy?
If you have hypothyroidism during pregnancy due to Hashimoto's disease or any other cause, it is crucial to get proper treatment promptly. Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to serious complications for both you and your baby.
For instance, untreated hypothyroidism or Hashimoto disease can increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight. Furthermore, it can also lead to an increased risk of postpartum depression in mothers.
Management and Treatment of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
One of the primary management strategies for Hashimoto's thyroiditis is thyroid hormone replacement therapy. This involves taking medication to address untreated hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid. The appropriate dose of medication should be determined by healthcare providers based on clinical trials and regular follow-up to ensure that thyroid hormone levels are within normal range.
It is important to note that thyroid hormone replacement therapy is a lifelong treatment, and patients may need to adjust their dosage over time. It is essential for patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis to work closely with their healthcare providers in monitoring their condition regularly.
Iodine Supplementation
While much iodine is not recommended for Hashimoto's thyroiditis, supplements may be prescribed by healthcare providers in appropriate doses to support thyroid function. Iodine supplementation can help improve symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and sensitivity to cold.
However, it is crucial for patients with Hashimoto disease to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any iodine supplements as excessive iodine intake can worsen the condition. Patients should also avoid consuming foods high in iodine such as seaweed, seafood, and dairy products.
Other Medications
In addition to thyroid hormone replacement therapy and iodine supplementation, other medications may be prescribed by healthcare providers based on individual symptoms and needs. For example, if a patient has an enlarged goiter or inflammation of the thyroid gland (thyroiditis), they may require anti-inflammatory medications or surgery. Patients with Hashimoto disease may also require thyroid hormone replacement therapy and iodine supplementation.
Furthermore, some patients may experience depression or anxiety related to their condition and may benefit from antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication. It is vital for individuals with Hashimoto's thyroiditis always to communicate openly with their healthcare providers about any new symptoms they experience.
Lifestyle Changes
Alongside medical treatments, lifestyle changes can also play a significant role in managing Hashimoto's thyroiditis effectively. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can help reduce symptoms such as fatigue and weight gain.
Patients with Hashimoto disease should also avoid smoking and limit their alcohol intake. Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or therapy can also be helpful in managing the condition.
Treating Hashimoto's Disease: When to See a Doctor
Importance of Consulting a Healthcare Provider for Hashimoto's Disease
Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. It occurs when the immune system attacks and damages the thyroid, leading to hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid. Symptoms of Hashimoto's disease include fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, depression, and constipation. It is important to see a doctor if you experience these symptoms as they can indicate an underlying medical condition.
Your healthcare provider can help diagnose and manage your condition. They will perform blood tests to check your thyroid hormone levels and antibodies. If you are diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease, your doctor may recommend treatment options such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT involves taking synthetic thyroid hormones to replace the hormones that your body is not producing enough of.
Hormone Replacement Therapy for Hashimoto's Disease
Hormone replacement therapy is one of the most common treatments for Hashimoto's disease. The goal of HRT is to restore normal thyroid function and relieve symptoms associated with hypothyroidism. Your doctor will prescribe medication based on your individual needs and adjust the dosage as needed over time.
It is important to note that while HRT can be effective in managing symptoms, it does not cure Hashimoto's disease or stop the progression of autoimmune damage to the thyroid gland. Regular check-ups with your doctor are necessary to monitor your thyroid function and adjust treatment as needed.
Surgery for Hashimoto's Disease
In some cases, surgery may be recommended by a doctor to remove part or all of the thyroid gland. This procedure, called a thyroidectomy, may be necessary if there are nodules or growths on the gland that could potentially become cancerous. Hashimoto disease, however, may also require a thyroidectomy in severe cases.
Surgery may also be recommended if other treatments have been unsuccessful in managing symptoms of Hashimoto disease or if there are complications such as difficulty breathing or swallowing. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of surgery with you and determine if it is the best course of action for your individual case.
When to See a Doctor
If you are experiencing symptoms of Hashimoto's disease, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
If you have been diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease and are currently undergoing treatment, it is important to keep up with regular check-ups with your doctor. This will ensure that your thyroid function is being monitored and that treatment is adjusted as needed.
Complications of Hashimoto's Disease
Thyroid Problems
One of the most common complications of Hashimoto's disease is thyroid problems. The disease causes inflammation in the thyroid gland, which can lead to an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Hypothyroidism can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and depression. In some cases, it can also lead to goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland), nodules on the thyroid gland, or even cancer.
Hormone Problems
Hashimoto's disease can also affect hormone levels in the body. The hormones produced by the thyroid gland are essential for regulating metabolism and energy levels. When these hormones are disrupted due to Hashimoto's disease, people may experience changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and mood. Women may also experience irregular periods or fertility problems.
Other Autoimmune Disorders
People with Hashimoto's disease have an increased risk of developing other autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or celiac disease. This is because all autoimmune disorders involve an overactive immune system that attacks healthy tissues in the body.
Heart and Blood Vessel Problems
In some cases, untreated Hashimoto's disease can lead to heart and blood vessel problems such as high cholesterol levels or heart failure. These complications occur when hypothyroidism is left untreated for a long time.
Infertility and Pregnancy Complications
Women with untreated Hashimoto's disease may have difficulty getting pregnant or carrying a baby to term due to hormonal imbalances caused by hypothyroidism. If they do become pregnant, they are at higher risk for complications such as miscarriage, preterm labor, or preeclampsia.
Myxedema Coma
Myxedema coma is a rare but life-threatening complication that can occur if hypothyroidism from Hashimoto's disease is not treated promptly. It occurs when the body's metabolism slows down to the point where it becomes life-threatening. Symptoms may include confusion, hypothermia (low body temperature), and respiratory failure.
Chronic Nature of Hashimoto's Disease and its Impact on the Thyroid Gland
Hashimoto's disease is a chronic thyroiditis that can last for many years, causing long-term effects on the thyroid gland. The disease is characterized by lymphocytic thyroiditis, which causes inflammation and damage to the thyroid gland. This damage can result in decreased thyroid function, leading to hypothyroidism.
Understanding Chronic Thyroiditis
Chronic thyroiditis refers to a condition where there is ongoing inflammation of the thyroid gland. In Hashimoto's disease, this inflammation is caused by an autoimmune response where the body attacks its own tissues. Over time, this ongoing inflammation can lead to damage to the thyroid gland and a decrease in its ability to produce hormones.
The chronic nature of Hashimoto's disease means that symptoms can persist for months or even years. These symptoms may include fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, cold intolerance, constipation, depression, and other mood changes. Some individuals may also experience swelling in their neck due to an enlarged thyroid gland.
Lymphocytic Thyroiditis and Damage to the Thyroid Gland
Lymphocytic thyroiditis refers to a condition where there is an infiltration of lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) into the thyroid gland. These cells cause inflammation and damage to the tissue over time.
In Hashimoto's disease, this infiltration leads to destruction of healthy thyroid tissue and replacement with scar tissue (fibrosis). This fibrosis can cause decreased function of the remaining healthy tissue in the gland. As a result, individuals with Hashimoto's disease may experience hypothyroidism over time as their hormone levels decrease.
Impact on Hormone Levels and Symptoms
Hypothyroidism occurs when there are low levels of thyroid hormones circulating in the body. This can cause a range of symptoms including fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin and hair loss. Individuals with hypothyroidism may also experience depression, anxiety, and other mood changes.
In addition to these symptoms, individuals with Hashimoto's disease may also experience a goiter (enlarged thyroid gland), which can cause discomfort or difficulty swallowing. In rare cases, the inflammation caused by Hashimoto's disease can lead to thyroid nodules or even thyroid cancer.
Management and Treatment
There is no cure for Hashimoto's disease, but it can be managed through regular monitoring and treatment. This may include hormone replacement therapy to replace the missing hormones in the body. Individuals with Hashimoto's disease should work closely with their healthcare provider to monitor their hormone levels and adjust their medication as needed.
In addition to medication management, individuals with Hashimoto's disease should also make lifestyle changes to support their overall health. This may include eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, managing stress levels, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Complications of Hashimoto's Disease
Hashimoto's disease is a common autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. It occurs when the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage. The condition can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, dry skin, and sensitivity to cold.
While Hashimoto's disease can be challenging to manage, the outlook for people with this condition is generally good. With proper treatment and management, most people can lead normal lives without significant complications.
Effective Management through Medication and Lifestyle Changes
In most cases, Hashimoto's disease can be effectively managed with medication and lifestyle changes. The primary treatment for this condition is hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which involves taking synthetic thyroid hormones to replace those that are lost due to damage to the thyroid gland.
Lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet rich in nutrients like iodine, selenium, zinc, vitamin D3 may also help improve symptoms of Hashimoto's disease. Stress management techniques such as yoga or meditation may help reduce inflammation in the body.
Rare Cases of Complications
While most people with Hashimoto's disease experience mild symptoms that can be easily managed with medication and lifestyle changes alone. Rarely some individuals may develop complications such as goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland), heart problems (such as arrhythmias), or nerve damage.
Goiter occurs when there is an abnormal growth of cells within the thyroid gland resulting in its enlargement. This condition may cause difficulty swallowing or breathing if left untreated. Heart problems arise due to an imbalance of hormones caused by hypothyroidism which puts extra strain on your heart resulting in irregular heartbeat or palpitations.
Nerve damage from uncontrolled hypothyroidism can cause tingling sensations or numbness in your hands or feet known as peripheral neuropathy which could lead to muscle weakness over time.
Regular Monitoring and Follow-Up
Regular monitoring and follow-up with a healthcare provider is important for those with Hashimoto's disease, especially in rare cases where complications may arise. Blood tests are typically performed every six to twelve months to monitor thyroid function and hormone levels.
If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, it is important to notify your healthcare provider immediately. They may recommend additional testing or adjustments to your medication regimen.
Understanding and Managing Hashimoto's Disease
Hashimoto's disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. It is important to understand the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, management, and complications of this disease in order to effectively manage it.
The thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism and energy levels in the body. When the immune system attacks this gland, it can lead to hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid. This condition can cause fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold temperatures, and other symptoms.
Causes and risk factors of Hashimoto's disease include genetics, age, gender (women are more likely to develop it), exposure to radiation or toxins, and certain medical conditions such as celiac disease or type 1 diabetes.
Symptoms of Hashimoto's disease can vary but may include fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, depression, dry skin, joint pain, and muscle weakness. These symptoms can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes.
Diagnosing Hashimoto's disease involves blood tests to check for levels of thyroid hormones and antibodies. A physical exam may also be performed to check for an enlarged thyroid gland.
Hypothyroidism during pregnancy can have negative effects on both the mother and baby. Women with Hashimoto's disease should work closely with their healthcare provider to manage their condition during pregnancy.
Management and treatment of Hashimoto's thyroiditis includes taking medication such as levothyroxine which replaces missing hormones in the body. Lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet rich in nutrients like iodine can also help manage symptoms.
It is important to see a doctor if you experience any symptoms of Hashimoto's disease. Complications of this condition include goiter (enlarged thyroid gland), heart problems like high cholesterol or heart failure, mental health issues like depression or anxiety disorders.
Hashimoto's disease is chronic in nature meaning that it requires ongoing management throughout life. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that works for you.
In conclusion, understanding and managing Hashimoto's disease involves learning about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, management, and complications of this condition. By working closely with a healthcare provider and making lifestyle changes, it is possible to effectively manage this chronic autoimmune disorder. If you suspect you have Hashimoto's disease or are experiencing any symptoms mentioned above, please see your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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