Hyperthyroid is a disorder that occurs when the thyroid overacts and produces more thyroid hormone than usual. Thyroid hormone acts on various parts of the body contributing to multiple necessary body functions. However, It becomes a problem when there is an excess in thyroid hormone. Most common cause of overacting thyroid in North America is Autoimmune conditions such as Graves disease. Autoimmune disorder is a malfunction in our immune system causing it to attack our own body. Other conditions that can cause hyperthyroid is thyroid nodules and Thyroiditis.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
- Cardiovascular
- Palpitations
- leg swelling due to Heart Failure (Long term untreated hyperthyroidism can cause Heart Failure)
- Shortness of Breath
- Neuropsychiatry
- Anxiety
- Pressured speech
- Tremors
- Psychosis
- Insomnia (sleeping problems)
- Endocrinology
- Heat Intolerance
- Excessive sweating
- Weight loss despite increased appetite
- Overacting bowels
- Eyes
- Inability to close the eyes completely
- Increased photo sensitivity
- Foreign body sensation in the eye
- Increased tearing
- Lid lag
- Musculoskeletal
- Muscle weakness
- Genitourinary
- Menstrual abnormality
High risk population
Even though Hyperthyroidism cannot be prevented it occurs more in certain population than others .
- Females
- People with Family history of Thyroid or Autoimmune disorders
- Excessive Iodine consumption
Complications of Hyperthyroid
- Heart Problems
- Long standing uncontrolled Hyperthyroid can cause Atrial Fibrillation (irregular heart beating ) and Heart Failure
- Bone Problems
- Hyperthyroid affects the absorption of calcium and therefore cause weak bones and increase the risk of fracture
- Infertility
- Excessive thyroid hormone cause menstrual abnormality and can cause difficulty getting pregnant
- Eye Problems
- Hyperthyroid can affect the muscles around the eyes causing a lid lag or graves ophthalmopathy. Inability to close the eyes completely due to pulling of eye muscle can result in dry eyes. It can also cause double vision.
treatment
There are different ways to treat Hyperthyroid depending on your age, health and severity. Talk to your doctor about the treatment options that would be best for you.
- Anti thyroid medications
- Radioative Iodine
- Surgery (Thyroidectomy)
- Medications to control your symptoms
Mediculous 