What is hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism happens when your thyroid gland makes more hormones than your body needs. This small gland sits at the front of your neck and helps control how your body uses energy. When it becomes overactive, many systems in your body begin to speed up.
Symptoms and Causes
Hyperthyroidism can affect your body in several ways, and symptoms may develop gradually or appear quickly.
Common symptoms include:
- Feeling anxious, restless, or irritable
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Unexplained weight loss
- Sweating more than usual
- Trouble sleeping
- Muscle weakness
- Frequent bowel movements
- Sensitivity to heat
- Shaking hands
- Changes in menstrual cycles
- Fatigue or low energy
Some people may also notice swelling in the neck (goiter) or changes in their eyes, such as bulging or light sensitivity.
Possible causes include:
- Autoimmune conditions like Graves’ disease
- Overactive nodules in the thyroid
- Inflammation of the thyroid (thyroiditis)
- Too much iodine from diet or medications
- Taking excess thyroid hormone medication
- Rarely, issues with the pituitary gland
You may be more likely to develop hyperthyroidism if you are female, over age 60, have a family history of thyroid conditions, or have certain autoimmune diseases.
How is it diagnosed?
Your provider will begin with a conversation about your symptoms and a physical exam. Blood tests are the most important step to measure thyroid hormone levels.
If needed, imaging tests may be used. An ultrasound can look for growths or changes in the thyroid, while a thyroid scan can show how active the gland is.
How is it treated?
Treatment focuses on lowering hormone levels and managing symptoms.
Common treatment options include:
- Medications to reduce thyroid hormone production
- Beta blockers to control symptoms like a rapid heartbeat
- Radioactive iodine therapy to gradually shrink thyroid activity
In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove part or all of the thyroid gland. If this happens, lifelong thyroid hormone replacement may be needed.
Most people respond well to treatment. With proper care, symptoms can improve, and serious complications can be avoided.
