Read about how you can identify the symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism and seek timely medical treatment.
The thyroid gland is situated in the neck region and is mainly concerned with the regulation of the body's metabolism. But when this gland does not function properly, it leads to a range of problems. One of these is hyperthyroidism.
What is hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism literally means 'too much thyroid hormone'. Under normal circumstances, the thyroid gland produces the exact required amount of two hormones called T3 and T4. In hyperthyroidism, the gland produces excessive amounts of any one or both of these hormones. The biggest effect this has on the human body is that it speeds up the rate of metabolism. Subsequently, all the internal processes in the body speed up, which, in turn, has an effect on organs like the heart, pancreas, etc.
What causes hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism affects people of both sexes, though women are ten times more likely than men to experience it. Around 80 percent of all hyperthyroidism cases are caused by Graves' disease. This is an inherited, auto-immune disorder that appears when some people reach middle age. It is most likely triggered by a bacterial or viral infection. The antibodies produced against the infection are assumed to react with the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) receptors, which causes the thyroid gland to become overactive.
The other major cause of hyperthyroidism is over-production of the thyroid hormones due to an enlargement of the thyroid gland itself. This enlargement may be due to a goitre, which refers to the swelling of the entire thyroid gland. In other cases, the gland may develop a collection of growths, called an adenoma. These growths are usually benign, but can turn malignant over a period of time. Apart from producing extra amounts of thyroid hormones, an enlarged thyroid gland can damage other structures in the neck region by compressing them.
There are a few lesser causes as well. An inflamed thyroid gland, called thyroiditis, can also result in increased hormone production at times. This condition is usually seen in women, after they have a baby. In other cases, certain medications may interfere with normal thyroid functioning. These are rare occurrences though, and they usually result in mild cases of hyperthyroidism, which can be easily cured.
What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism?
Excessive amounts of thyroid hormone in the body lead to an overall increase in an individual's rate of metabolism. The physical symptoms of increased metabolism caused by hyperthyroidism include:
- Increased heart rate, leading to palpitations
- Muscle weakness
- Hair loss
- Increase in appetite but loss of weight
- Irritability and nervousness
- Intolerance to heat
- Bulging eyeballs
- Increase in bowel movements
- Difficulty sleeping
- Tremors in the hands
- Fatigue
- Heavy perspiration
- Decreased menstrual flow or absent periods
All these symptoms need not appear at the same time. However, if you experience three or more of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult your doctor.
What treatments are available for hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism can be detected by a blood test, which measures the level of TSH in the blood. Low levels of TSH usually mean that there are high levels of thyroid hormones in the body. In the case of hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease, detection is carried out by measuring the amount of anti-TSH receptor antibodies in the patient.
The first step towards treating hyperthyroidism is, usually, medication, prescribed by the doctor. Beta-blockers are a class of drugs that suppress the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. They are primarily used to combat symptoms like palpitations, tremors, and nervousness. These drugs are used for hyperthyroidism resulting from thyroiditis or side effects of medication. For severe cases of hyperthyroidism, such as those resulting from Graves' disease, thyrostatic drugs are used. These drugs work by suppressing the thyroid gland itself and preventing it from producing excess amounts of hormones.
In some cases, medication may not be effective, or the symptoms may reappear once the drugs are discontinued. In such situations, patients might opt for surgery. People who have an enlarged thyroid gland usually prefer this method. As with all surgeries, partial or complete removal of the thyroid gland has its own set of risks. Removal of the gland often results in decreased production of hormones, which causes hypothyroidism. Also, surgery can damage the other sensitive structures in the neck region, like the nerve to the voice box.
A new therapy that is currently being used is the Radioactive Iodine therapy. This therapy works on the principle that thyroid cells are the only cells in the body that can absorb iodine. By introducing radioactive iodine into the body, the thyroid cells will absorb it and will die as a result of poisoning. The amount of radioactive iodine to be given is calculated after an iodine scan and the calculated amount is given orally. This treatment does not require any hospitalisation and the medication is out of the body within days. However, the cells require at least one month to die completely. This treatment is completely safe and does not increase a person's chances of developing cancer.
Hyperthyroidism is not a disease. It is merely a medical condition that can be easily and safely cured. There is no reason why people with hyperthyroidism cannot lead normal and fruitful lives.
Have you ever experienced any of the symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism? What treatment would you be most comfortable with? To share your views and experiences, click here.
