Hyperthyroidism – Symptoms and Causes Q&A

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that occurs in response to the overproduction of thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland produces essential hormones that affect every cell in the body. These hormones influence heart rate, body temperature, the rate at which carbohydrates and fats are used, and control protein production in the body.

Various thyroid conditions can result from different causes leading to an overactive or underactive thyroid. In the case of hyperthyroidism, the body’s metabolism speeds up, which can lead to weight loss, irregular and rapid heartbeats, tremors, and many other symptoms. Treatment options for hyperthyroidism include anti-thyroid drugs, beta-blockers, surgery, and more.

Hyperthyroidism is associated with a wide range of potential symptoms that can affect an individual’s entire body due to the importance of the hormones produced by the thyroid gland in influencing various systems throughout an individual.

Symptoms can often include unexplained weight loss, rapid heart palpitations, feeling nervous or shaky, more frequent bowel movements or diarrhea, increased appetite, moist skin, and vision changes. Individuals may also experience changes to their sleep cycle, various other sleep issues, menstrual changes, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, hair loss, muscle weakness, and enlargement or swelling of the neck from the thyroid gland.

Individuals often have multiple symptoms when they have hyperthyroidism although each symptom and its severity may be dictated by the condition’s cause and other health factors.

Left unchecked, hyperthyroidism can lead to a range of serious health complications, including issues with the heart such as heart failure and heart rhythm disorders, vision problems, brittle bones, and discolored or swollen skin.

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid is overactive, resulting in excess production of thyroid hormones. Various medical conditions can lead to its onset, resulting in excess thyroid hormones being released into the bloodstream.

Autoimmune disorders, including Graves’ disease, can result in the immune system attacking the thyroid gland. Graves’ disease is among the most frequent conditions responsible for hyperthyroidism, causing the thyroid to make too much hormone.

Overactive thyroid nodules can also cause hyperthyroidism when a thyroid adenoma produces an excess of thyroid hormone. This means that part of the gland is walled off from the rest of the thyroid.

Thyroiditis can result from autoimmune disorders leading to an inflammation of the thyroid gland. Other risk factors for hyperthyroidism include a family history of Graves’ disease and other thyroid diseases, individual health factors, and a history of certain chronic illnesses.

Recent pregnancy can also heighten the risk of developing thyroiditis, which can lead to hyperthyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism can be managed through various treatment options. Providers at Mercy Medical Clinic carefully evaluate each patient with comprehensive examinations and testing to identify the root cause of their hyperthyroidism, which will inform the most appropriate treatment choices.

Treatment options include anti-thyroid drugs that stop the thyroid from producing hormones. In other cases, radioactive iodine, taken in the form of oral medication, may be used to help shrink the thyroid and reduce levels of thyroid hormone over several weeks. The thyroid gland may be required to be surgically removed under some circumstances.

Beta-blockers can be used to block the action of the thyroid hormones in the body. Although beta-blockers do not affect hormone levels in the blood, they can alleviate symptoms. The duration of the treatment period is capable of varying depending on the cause of hyperthyroidism. Some treatments provide swift relief from symptoms within a week, while others, like anti-thyroid medications, work over approximately six to twelve weeks to reduce hormone levels to an appropriate range.

Mercy Medical Clinic providers will discuss treatment options, expectations, and patient preferences to develop a plan to manage hyperthyroidism, control symptoms, provide long-term relief, and reduce the risk of serious complications. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 615 S Highway 78 Suite 100 Wylie, TX 75098! We serve patients from Wylie TX, Lavon TX, Rockwall TX, Sachse TX, Allen TX, Winningkoff TX and BEYOND.