Hyperthyroidism

What is Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism, also referred to as overactive thyroid, is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much of the thyroid hormone thyroxine. The thyroid controls key functions in the body, such as regulating metabolism, body temperature, emotional stability, and it promotes the health and growth of epidermal tissues. It also affects your heart, muscles, bones and cholesterol. Too much thyroid hormone can speed things in the body up, such as weight loss, heartbeat, sweating, or cause a person to feel nervous and moody.

Causes of Hyperthyroidism

Some common causes of hyperthyroidism include:

• Goiter, or Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disease that accounts for the majority of hyperthyroidism cases
• Viral infections may cause inflammation and an unusually active thyroid
• Excess iodine intake
• Tumors in the testes or ovaries
• Abnormal benign growths in the thyroid and/or pituitary gland
• Hormonal shots for treating hypothyroidism may result in too much of the thyroid hormone
• Postpartum thyroiditis in some women, during or after delivery

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

The following symptoms can be indicative of hyperthyroidism:

• Goiter (visibly enlarged thyroid gland)
• Fast-paced heartbeat
• Restlessness
• Loss in stamina
• Hot flashes or intolerance for heat
• Excessive sweating
• Elevated hunger
• Disturbed menstrual cycles
• High blood pressure
• Sudden loss in body weight
• Hair loss
• Skin ailments, such as dryness
• Trembling limbs
• Nausea
• Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea

Treatments for Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is treated based on its cause and the severity of symptoms. Some more common treatment options include the following:

• Radioactive iodine to shrink the thyroid and eliminate the symptoms
• Anti-thyroid medications to prevent the thyroid from producing excess hormones
• Beta-blockers to help temporarily ease the symptoms of nervousness, palpitation, and tremors.
• Surgery to remove the thyroid

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