Hyperthyroidism is defined as the condition in which the thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormones, which control how the body uses and stores energy.
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:
- Nervousness and irritability
- Sweating and heat intolerance
- Tachycardia and palpitations
- Muscle weakness
- Frequent bowel movements
- Weight loss despite increased appetite
- Tremor
- Feeling of fatigue
- Sleep disorders
- Menstrual disorders in women
- Gynecomastia in men
In some cases, the patient may experience difficulty swallowing or pressure in the throat due to thyroid enlargement (goiter). If the hyperthyroidism is caused by Graves’ disease, some patients may exhibit exophthalmos and generalized inflammation of the eye muscles (endocrine ophthalmopathy).
Some people with hyperthyroidism have no symptoms.
Untreated hyperthyroidism can cause a heart rhythm disorder called atrial fibrillation, osteoporosis, and, rarely, heart failure.
Diagnosis is made through clinical examination and blood tests. The initial assessment is followed by more specialized tests to identify the cause.
Hyperthyroidism can be treated with:
- Medication. The medications used for the treatment of hyperthyroidism are divided into two categories. The first category includes antithyroid medications which help reduce the amount of hormone produced by the thyroid gland, while the second category includes beta-blockers, which help reduce the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
- Radioactive iodine. Radioactive iodine is available in pill or liquid form and its purpose is to destroy the overactive part of the thyroid gland. If you are pregnant, you should not use this treatment, as it may harm the baby’s thyroid gland. The amount of radiation used is small and therefore does not cause problems in a future pregnancy, nor does it increase the risk of birth defects in a baby conceived during a future pregnancy.
Particular caution is required in people with Graves’ disease, as radioactive iodine may worsen existing thyroid eye disease (endocrine ophthalmopathy), especially in smokers. In this case, your doctor may recommend another treatment instead of radioactive iodine or prescribe corticosteroids before radioactive iodine treatment to prevent the ophthalmopathy from worsening. - Surgical management. Surgery can be used to remove part or all of the thyroid gland. In general, surgery is not recommended as a first-line treatment due to the cost and potential complications. However, in certain cases surgery is the best option.
After radioactive iodine therapy or surgery, most patients require thyroid hormone replacement therapy for the rest of their lives.
For women wishing to conceive
If you are being treated with antithyroid medication, consult your doctor before trying to conceive. Your treatment and dosage may need to be adjusted.
If you have been treated with radioactive iodine or surgery, wait at least 6 months before trying to conceive. This will give your doctor enough time to adjust your thyroid hormone levels.
It is very important to have your thyroid hormone levels checked regularly during pregnancy. Your hormone levels need to be within the proper range to avoid risks to both you and your baby.