The thyroid is a small yet powerful regulator of vital bodily functions. Explore how lifestyle...
Read MoreHyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid makes too much thyroid hormone. Our providers are here to help you navigate this condition and find treatment options that work best for your lifestyle.
What is Hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is a condition characterized by an overactive thyroid gland, which produces an excess amount of thyroid hormone. This hormone is crucial for regulating the body's metabolism, energy levels and various physiological functions
The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly stimulates the thyroid gland to produce too much hormone. Other potential causes include thyroid nodules that produce excess hormones, thyroid inflammation (thyroiditis) and excessive intake of thyroid hormone medication. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as toxic multinodular goiter, can lead to hyperthyroidism.
What are the Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism?
The thyroid gland is critical in regulating energy levels, mood and bodily functions. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism can include:
- Fast heart rate
- Difficulty sleeping
- Blurred vision
- Heat sensitivity
- Clammy or sweaty skin
- Unexplained weight loss
- Tremors or muscle weakness
- Anxiousness, nervousness or irritability
- Irregular menstrual cycles or a lack of periods
- Increased bowel movements, diarrhea and nausea
How is Hyperthyroidism Diagnosed?
Since symptoms vary, endocrinologists diagnose hyperthyroidism through physical exams, medical history, and blood tests. During an exam, your doctor may check for tremors, rapid pulse, overactive reflexes, moist and warm skin, and eye changes. They may also assess your thyroid gland for abnormalities.
Blood tests measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones T-4 and T-3. If results indicate hyperthyroidism, further testing may be needed to determine the cause.
three
Hyperthyroidism Treatment Options
Treatment for hyperthyroidism depends on your symptoms, medical history and the cause of your condition.
Medication
Anti-thyroid medications ease symptoms of hyperthyroidism by preventing the thyroid gland from making too much thyroid hormone. After 12-18 months, you may be able to decrease or stop medication if your thyroid levels have returned to normal. Beta blockers can also lessen hyperthyroidism symptoms but don’t treat the condition itself.
Radioiodine Therapy
Radioiodine can be taken orally to shrink the thyroid gland. Sometimes, this type of treatment causes thyroid production to slow too much, resulting in hypothyroidism. In these cases, you may need to take thyroid hormone replacement medicine.
Surgery
For people who are pregnant or can’t take other forms of anti-thyroid medication, your doctor may suggest a thyroidectomy to remove all or part of the thyroid gland. Individuals who have their thyroid removed need to continue taking thyroid hormone replacement medicine for the rest of their lives.
Our Approach to Hyperthyroidism
Treatment At Inspira, we provide personalized hyperthyroidism care using state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to assess thyroid hormone levels and identify underlying causes.
We understand the challenges of hyperthyroidism, from unintended weight loss to anxiety and heart palpitations. Our expert endocrinologists create tailored treatment plans, including medication management, lifestyle adjustments and alternative therapies, ensuring high-quality care close to home.
