Hyperthyroidism (Overactive thyroid) is a medical condition in which the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormones. These hormones, which regulate the body’s metabolism, can cause a wide range of symptoms, including weight loss, rapid heartbeat, tremors, sweating, and difficulty sleeping.
Symptoms
Some common symptoms of hyperthyroidism (Overactive thyroid) include:
- Weight loss, despite an increased appetite
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Tremors or shakiness in the hands and fingers
- Sweating and sensitivity to heat
- Difficulty sleeping
- Nervousness, anxiety, or irritability
- Weakness or fatigue
- Diarrhea or frequent bowel movements
- Changes in menstrual patterns
- Enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter)
It’s important to note that not everyone with hyperthyroidism will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary.
What causes Hyperthyroidism (Overactive thyroid)
Hyperthyroidism is most commonly caused by an autoimmune disorder called Graves’ disease. In this condition, the immune system produces antibodies that stimulate the thyroid gland to produce too much thyroid hormone.
Other causes of hyperthyroidism include:
- Multinodular goiter: a non-cancerous enlargement of the thyroid gland that causes it to produce too much hormone
- Thyroiditis: an inflammation of the thyroid gland that can cause it to release excess hormone into the bloodstream
- Tumors or growths on the thyroid gland
- Taking too much thyroid hormone medication
Common signs of Hyperthyroidism
Some common signs of hyperthyroidism include:
- Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
- Palpitations
- Sweating
- Nervousness or irritability
- Tremors in the hands
- Heat intolerance
- Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite
- Frequent bowel movements
- Changes in menstrual patterns
- Enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter)
- Fatigue
Who’s affected
Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, can affect people of any age, but it is more common in women and in people over the age of 60. Certain medical conditions, such as Graves’ disease, are the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. People with a family history of thyroid problems may also be at increased risk of developing hyperthyroidism.
Diagnosing Hyperthyroidism
There are several tests that can be used to diagnose hyperthyroidism. These may include:
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test: This measures the level of TSH in your blood. In people with hyperthyroidism, the level of TSH is usually low because the high levels of thyroid hormone inhibit the production of TSH.
- T4 test: This measures the level of T4 (thyroxine), a type of thyroid hormone, in your blood. High levels of T4 may indicate hyperthyroidism.
- T3 test: This measures the level of T3 (triiodothyronine), another type of thyroid hormone, in your blood. High levels of T3 may also indicate hyperthyroidism.
- Thyroid scan: This test uses a small amount of radioactive material to create a detailed image of the thyroid gland. It can help determine the size and shape of the gland and identify any abnormalities.
- Thyroid biopsy: In this test, a small sample of thyroid tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to look for signs of thyroid cancer or other conditions.
Complications of Hyperthyroidism
If left untreated, hyperthyroidism can cause several complications, including:
- Heart problems: Hyperthyroidism can cause an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), which can lead to heart palpitations, chest pain, and even heart failure.
- Osteoporosis: Hyperthyroidism can cause a loss of bone density, increasing the risk of fractures.
- Eye problems: Graves’ disease, a common cause of hyperthyroidism, can cause inflammation of the eye muscles and tissues behind the eye, leading to a condition called Graves’ ophthalmopathy. This can cause vision problems and a bulging of the eyes.
- Mental health problems: Hyperthyroidism can cause anxiety, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. In severe cases, it can lead to psychosis.
Preventing Hyperthyroidism
There is no sure way to prevent hyperthyroidism, but there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Follow your treatment plan if you have an autoimmune condition or a family history of thyroid problems.
- Get regular check-ups to monitor your thyroid function.
- Avoid exposure to radiation and certain chemicals that may affect the thyroid gland.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can affect your immune system and potentially increase your risk of autoimmune conditions like Graves’ disease.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in nutrients, including iodine.
- Exercise regularly to help maintain good overall health.