THE hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the gland thyroid produces excess hormones, accelerating various body functions. This excessive production of thyroid hormones can cause a series of physical and emotional symptoms that significantly impact quality of life.
Summary
In this complete guide, you will understand:
- What is the hyperthyroidism;
- What are the main symptoms;
- How is it done? diagnosis of hyperthyroidism;
- What are the most common causes;
- Options definitive treatment, such as the use of radioactive iodine, surgery or antithyroid drugs;
- Differences between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism;
- When to seek medical help.
Explanatory video about Hyperthyroidism:
What is hyperthyroidism and how does it affect the body?
THE hyperthyroidism is an autoimmune condition characterized by excessive production of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). This affects metabolism and can cause anything from accelerated heartbeat until weight loss, even with normal food.
THE Graves' disease is the most common cause of the condition. Other causes include thyroiditis (like the granulomatous or destructive) and toxic nodule.
An overactive gland affects the functioning of several systems, resulting in symptoms such as:
- Tachycardia;
- Anxiety and irritability;
- Hand tremors;
- Insomnia;
- Loss of muscle mass;
- Changes in the menstrual cycle.
What are the main symptoms of hyperthyroidism?
You symptoms of hyperthyroidism can vary from person to person and depend on the severity of the condition. The most common include:
- Rapid and unintentional weight loss;
- Increased heart rate and palpitations;
- Increased heart rate and palpitations;
- Excessive sweating and heat intolerance;
- Tremors, especially in the hands;
- Irritability, anxiety and difficulty concentrating;
- Sleep disorders like insomnia;
- Fatigue and muscle weakness;
- Increased appetite;
- Diarrhea or intestinal acceleration;
- In some cases, bulging eyes (Graves' ophthalmopathy).
What causes hyperthyroidism?
THE cause of hyperthyroidism most common is the Graves' disease, one autoimmune disease which especially affects women between the ages of 20 and 40. In this condition, the immune system stimulates thyroid gland to produce excess hormones.
Other causes include:
- Toxic multinodular goiter;
- Toxic thyroid nodule;
- Thyroiditis;
- Excess iodine (supplements or contrast in exams);
- Use of medications that affect hormone production.
Can hyperthyroidism cause serious complications?
Yes. The hyperthyroidism can cause serious complications when left untreated, such as:
- Thyroid storm: acute and severe form with risk of death;
- Osteoporosis: due to increased bone loss;
- Cardiac arrhythmias, especially atrial fibrillation;
- Worsening of Graves' ophthalmopathy;
- Increased risk of Stroke.
That's why confirm the diagnosis and start the proper treatment is essential to control the severe hyperthyroidism.
👉 Imbalances such as hyperthyroidism show how hormones influence various functions of the body. Check out our complete guide.
How is the diagnosis made?
THE diagnosis of hyperthyroidism is made by means of:
- Laboratory tests, with dosage of TSH, T3 and T4;
- Low TSH with Elevated T3 and T4 confirm the picture;
- Imaging exams, as thyroid ultrasound and scintigraphy to evaluate nodules or capture pattern;
- In specific cases, it may be necessary biopsy or investigation of follicular carcinoma.
What tests are used to confirm the condition?
The main exams include:
- Hormone dosage: TSH, T3 and T4;
- Thyroid scintigraphy: assesses the operating pattern;
- Uptake of radioactive iodine: differentiates types of hyperthyroidism;
- Ultrasound of the gland: detects goiter, nodules or inflammations.
These tests help identify whether the hyperthyroidism is caused put Graves' disease, autonomous nodules or thyroiditis.
What is the treatment for hyperthyroidism?
THE hyperthyroidism treatment depends on the cause, patient age and severity of symptoms. Options include:
- Antithyroid drugs (methimazole or propylthiouracil);
- Radioactive iodine treatment, which reduces the activity of the gland;
- Surgery (thyroidectomy) total or partial;
- Beta blockers to temporarily control cardiac symptoms.
Each type of treatment has its risks and benefits. For example, the radioactive iodine may be contraindicated during pregnancy.
Is there a cure for hyperthyroidism? What is the definitive treatment?
THE hyperthyroidism has a cure, especially when it is successfully treated through radioactive iodine or the surgery. These are considered definitive treatments.
However, in some cases, the patient can to develop hypothyroidism after treatment, requiring hormone replacement therapy for the rest of your life.
THE clinical cure also depends on the underlying disease. The Graves' disease, for example, may have relapse, even after initial control.
Hyperthyroidism in pregnancy: how to treat it?
THE hyperthyroidism in pregnancy requires extra care. The antithyroid medications are adjusted to protect the fetus without compromising disease control. The radioactive iodine is contraindicated in that period.
THE hormonal control rigorous avoids risks such as:
- Premature birth;
- Preeclampsia;
- Fetal growth restriction.
THE collaboration between obstetrician and endocrinologist is essential to follow the severity of symptoms and adapt to initial and maintenance dose.
Hyperthyroidism and the Eyes: What is Graves' Ophthalmopathy?
THE Graves' ophthalmopathy is an autoimmune ocular manifestation that occurs in some cases of hyperthyroidism. It can cause:
- Bulging eyes;
- Double vision;
- Eye pain and dryness;
- In severe cases, optic nerve compression.
Treatment may include:
- Eye lubricants;
- Corticosteroids;
- Decompression surgeries in active phase.
Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism: What's the Difference?
- Hyperthyroidism is excess hormone production by the thyroid. Cause weight loss, accelerated heartbeat and anxiety.
- Hypothyroidism is the opposite: insufficient production of hormones, causing weight gain, fatigue, depression and cold intolerance.
The causes and treatments are also different. While the hyperthyroidism occurs by excessive stimulation of the gland, the hypothyroidism is caused due to destruction or failure of the thyroid.
Summary
THE hyperthyroidism is a condition caused by excessive production of thyroid hormones;
- It may be a result of Graves' disease, thyroiditis or nodules;
- You main symptoms they are weight loss, tachycardia, tremors and anxiety;
- THE diagnosis is made with laboratory and imaging tests;
- THE treatment for hyperthyroidism may include drugs, radioactive iodine or surgery;
- THE definitive treatment can lead to the development of hypothyroidism;
- Cases like the hyperthyroidism in pregnancy or with Graves' ophthalmopathy require specialized monitoring.
Always consult an endocrinologist to confirm the diagnosis and treat hyperthyroidism as effectively as possible.
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