Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism)

Overactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism, is a medical condition where the thyroid gland produces excess thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, and it plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, such as metabolism, growth, and development.

Causes of Overactive Thyroid

The most common causes of overactive thyroid include:

• Graves' disease: an autoimmune disorder that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce excess hormones
• Toxic multinodular goiter: a condition where multiple nodules in the thyroid gland become overactive and produce excess hormones
• Solitary toxic nodule: a single nodule in the thyroid gland that becomes overactive and produces excess hormones
• Thyroiditis: inflammation of the thyroid gland, which can cause it to release stored hormones into the bloodstream
• Pituitary gland problems: rare tumors or other conditions that affect the pituitary gland, leading to an overproduction of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)

Symptoms of Overactive Thyroid

The symptoms of overactive thyroid can vary from person to person, but common signs and symptoms include:

• Weight loss: despite increased appetite
• Rapid heartbeat: or palpitations
• Nervousness or anxiety
• Irritability or mood swings
• Fatigue or muscle weakness
• Heat intolerance: feeling hot even in cool temperatures
• Sweating: excessive sweating, especially at night
• Tremors: shaking or trembling of the hands or fingers
• Changes in bowel movements: more frequent bowel movements or diarrhea
• Menstrual changes: lighter or heavier periods, or irregular periods
• Enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter)

Treatments for Overactive Thyroid

The goal of treatment is to reduce the production of thyroid hormones and alleviate symptoms. Treatment options include:

• Medications: such as methimazole or propylthiouracil, which help reduce the production of thyroid hormones
• Radioactive iodine therapy: a procedure where radioactive iodine is taken orally to destroy part of the thyroid gland and reduce hormone production
• Surgery: removal of all or part of the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy) may be necessary in some cases, such as large goiters or cancer
• Beta blockers: medications that help control symptoms such as rapid heartbeat and tremors
• Lifestyle changes: maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and managing stress can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall health

Complications of Untreated Overactive Thyroid

If left untreated, overactive thyroid can lead to complications such as:

• Heart problems: atrial fibrillation, heart failure, or other cardiac conditions
• Osteoporosis: thinning of the bones due to excessive thyroid hormone production
• Eye problems: bulging eyes (exophthalmos) or double vision
• Red, swollen skin: and skin lesions or rashes
• Increased risk of miscarriage or premature birth during pregnancy

Diagnosis of Overactive Thyroid

Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of:

• Physical examination: to check for signs and symptoms such as goiter, tremors, or rapid heartbeat
• Medical history: to identify any underlying conditions or risk factors
• Thyroid function tests (TFTs): blood tests that measure the levels of thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) and TSH in the bloodstream
• Imaging tests: such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to evaluate the size and structure of the thyroid gland
• Radioactive iodine uptake test: a test that measures how much iodine is taken up by the thyroid gland