Hyperthyroidism – Diagnosis, Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, Alternative Treatments
What is Hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is the term used to describe the overproduction of thyroid hormones caused by over-activity of the thyroid gland. This gland is situated in the front of the neck. It is not usually noticeable, except when it becomes enlarged (goitre).
The thyroid gland produces two hormones, thyroxine and triiodothyronine, which are both essential for normal body cell functions. If either one or both of these hormones are released in excessive amounts, hyperthyroidism will develop.
The condition is usually associated with a general increase in the size of the gland (when it may be called Graves disease), or with one or more nodules (toxic or hot nodules) appearing on the gland.
What causes Hyperthyroidism?
Graves disease, the most common cause, is an auto-immune disorder in which the body makes antibodies which stimulate cell activity inside the thyroid gland. Another common cause of the condition is when an enlarged thyroid becomes overactive becomes overactive (Toxic modular goitre).
About 1:100 adults develop hyperthyroidism, and women are 5-7 times more likely than men to suffer from this disease. It can occur at many age, but the most common suffers are adults between 30 and 60 years old.
How is hyperthyroidism diagnosed and treated?
The common symptoms of hyperthyroidism are agitation, restlessness and a tremor. There is often loss of weight, despite an increased appetite, and profuse sweating, with a dislike of hot weather. The eyes may protrude. Many people feel weak and lethargic and notice their heart is beating fast. Very occasionally, the hair may steal to fall out.
The doctor will usually make a diagnosis from the symptoms, but occasionally, if the disease develops slowly, it may not be obvious. It will be necessary to carry out blood tests to gauge thyroid function. It may take 2-3 weeks to receive the results of these tests, which measure the level of thyroid hormones in the bloodstream.
There are three main treatments: using drugs, radioactive iodine and surgery.
- Drugs / Medicine
There are two common anti-thyroid drugs; carbimazole and propylthiouracil (PTU), both of which are taken daily in tablet form and which reduce the gland’s activity. These work quite quickly and are usually taken for up to 18 months. However, there is a risk of relapse after the course of treatment has finished. Drugs known as beta blockers are also given at the start to control the symptoms quickly while waiting for the anti-thyroid drug to work, but these drugs do not cure the underlying problem. - Radioactive Iodine
Radioactive iodine treatment is given by mouth and, once the iodine is taken up by the gland, it destroys some of the cells which are producing thyroid hormones. It is often difficult to judge the right dose, and over half those receiving this treatment will swing the other way and develop thyroid under-activity (hypothyroidism) within a few years. On the other hand, a few patients may need a second dose. It is not normally given to women of child-bearing age because of possible risks to the unborn child. - Surgery
The last option is surgery. This involves an operation to remove most of the thyroid gland. After surgery about 15% of patients either experience a recurrence of hyperthyroidism or suffer from underactive thyroid.
When should I see my doctor?
You should see your doctor as soon as possible if you think you might have an over-active thyroid gland and if you have some or all of the symptoms listed overleaf. Do not delay or avoid seeking medical help, as the condition will become progressively worse unless it is treated.
What will the doctor do?
Your doctor will check your medical history and will enquire about some of the other symptoms you may be experiencing. You may be weighed and your heart rate may be checked, as it can become irregular as well as fast. A physical examination will include testing nerve reflexes, which typically become abnormally brisk with this condition. The doctor will consider other possible reasons for similar symptoms-these could include an anxiety state or possibly diabetes. The doctor will normally arrange for blood tests to be carried out to check your thyroid function. If hyperthyroidism is suspected, you may be referred to a specialist straightway, without waiting for the results of the blood tests.
What can I do myself?
You cannot help this condition yourself. Occasionally the drugs have side effects, and if you develop a skin rash, joint pains, painful glands, nausea, or vomiting, tell your doctor immediately. If you do have hyperthyroidism and are treated with radioactive iodine or surgery, you could develop thyroid under-activity later. Thyroid tests should be repeated every 1-2 years.
How dangerous is Hyperthyroidism?
If untreated, hyperthyroidism may lead to heart failure. While the condition is not preventable, it is not usually dangerous, provided it is treated.
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
- Agitation.
- Restlessness.
- Tremor.
- Loss of weight.
- Sweating.
- Rapid pulse.
- Protruding eyes.
Warning and Precautions
In severe cases, hyperthyroidism can lead to heart failure. Always see your doctor if you think you have any of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Are there any Alternative Treatments for Hyperthyroidism?
The homoeopathic treatment for a hyperactive thyroid is so prescribe Iodum 30, which should be taken twice a day for two weeks.
Other than that, reflexology (massage of zones in the feet) is so said to ease hyperthyroidism.
Tags: Endocrine Disorders, hyperthyroidism, thyroid, thyroid gland
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