Subacute thyroiditis may present with fever, pain, goiter and hypothyroidism. This can be treated with aspirin, hormones such as prednisone, and thyroid hormone replacement therapy may be used in symptomatic patients during periods of hypothyroidism. The disease is self-limiting and treatment is only to relieve symptoms. The use of nonsteroidal drugs such as aspirin is usually sufficient to control symptoms. Glucocorticosteroids, such as prednisone, may be considered for symptomatic relief if symptoms do not improve significantly and are more severe, but the hormones do not shorten the course of the disease. If hypothyroidism is present, thyroxine replacement therapy may be applied. Patients with subacute thyroiditis should not take medication without authorization, and it is recommended that medication be used correctly under the guidance of a doctor.