Hyperthyroidism

The thyroid gland might be exposed to certain conditions that could lead to hyperthyroidism, which is a condition that causes increased thyroid hormones, and that leads to several problems in the body.

Hyperthyroidism

The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck, under the larynx, and it produces the thyroid hormones that are mainly responsible for the metabolism process (converting the food into energy) in the body, and it also has a role in controlling the body’s temperature and heart rate.

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that causes increased thyroid hormones, and that, in turn, leads to numerous problems in the body.

Overactive thyroid is a rare health condition in general.

Causes of hyperthyroidism

• Graves’ disease.
• Thyroiditis.
• Consuming too much iodine, which is an essential mineral that the thyroid gland uses to produce the thyroid hormones.
• Nodules (lumps) on the thyroid gland, yet they’re rarely cancerous.
• Pituitary adenoma that causes increased secretion of a certain thyroid hormone.
• The risk of hyperthyroidism increases in the cases of pregnancy, family history, and smoking.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism could appear suddenly or develop gradually, and they include:

• High blood pressure.
• Increased heartbeat, heart palpitations, or heart arrhythmia.
• Increased sweating.
• Unintentional weight loss despite the increased appetite.
• Shaking.
• Irritability and nervousness.
• Menstrual cycle problems.
• Insomnia.
• Increased heat sensitivity.
• Increased bowel movement or diarrhea.
• Tiredness.
• Muscle pain.
• Thinning skin and brittle hair.
• Goiter.
• Swelling or bulging eyes.

Complications of hyperthyroidism

• Heart problems, such as atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure.
• Osteoporosis.
• Stroke.
• Vision problems, such as pressure on the eyes, light sensitivity, double vision, puffy eyelids, and inflamed or red eyes. If not managed, these problems could lead to vision loss.
• Thyroid storm or, thyrotoxic crisis, which occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone in a short time, and it’s a life-threatening condition with the following symptoms: fever, tachycardia, delirium, confusion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration; this condition also requires emergent management.

Diagnosis of hyperthyroidism

• Physical examination.
• Imaging tests.
• Blood test.

Treatment of hyperthyroidism

• The treatment depends on certain medications to reduce the production of the thyroid hormones in addition to other medications to manage other symptoms.
• In case the medications didn’t work, a thyroidectomy is the other treatment option.