What is hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism, also known as overactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland produces excess thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland is located at the base of the neck and is responsible for the production of thyroid hormone, which helps regulate metabolism. This affects some body functions, such as temperature and the internal biological clock (which affects sleep).
Therefore, an excess of thyroid hormone can affect metabolism and cause problems in the body. Hyperthyroidism most commonly affects women and, although it can occur at any age, it generally seems to be most prevalent between the ages of 20 and 40.
Prognosis of the disease
Thanks to the use of particular medications or surgery, the prognosis of hyperthyroidism is generally positive, since it does not cause serious complications in the life of the affected person.
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism has a wide spectrum of symptoms, since the thyroid gland affects many of the body’s metabolic functions. Among these are:
- Sensitivity to heat
- Feeling nervous, anxious, or irritable
- Fatigue
- Mood swings
- More frequent need to urinate
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Lack of sexual desire
- Constant feeling of thirst
- Swelling in the neck (due to an enlarged thyroid gland)
- Irregular heartbeat
- Excessive sweating
- Alopecia
- Weight loss
- Hives
The symptoms of hyperthyroidism can have a variety of causes, but it is always advisable to have them checked by a family physician.
Diagnosis of hyperthyroidism
The diagnosis of hyperthyroidism is primarily made through an objective examination during which the neck area will be palpated to assess the swelling of the area. Later, more specific clinical tests will be performed to check thyroid hormone levels. In the case of thyroid nodules, an ultrasound and scan of the area will also be performed with possible sample collection for biopsy.
What are the causes of hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism can have a variety of causes. Most cases occur as a result of Graves’ disease, a condition in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland causing excessive thyroid hormone production. Hyperthyroidism can also be caused by certain types of medications, usually those containing iodine. An increase of iodine in the body can cause the thyroid gland to produce excess thyroid hormone.
Even nodules, growths that occur on the thyroid gland, can cause hyperthyroidism, as they contain thyroid tissue. This excess thyroid tissue can, in turn, cause an excess of the associated hormone.
Less commonly, thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid gland), thyroid cancer and benign tumors of the pituitary gland also cause hyperthyroidism.
Can it be prevented?
Hyperthyroidism is usually caused by Graves’ disease, a genetic disease. Therefore, there is no way to prevent the condition. However, taking some lifestyle measures can help reduce your risk, such as not smoking, eating a healthy diet, exercising and keeping stress levels to a minimum.
Treatment for hyperthyroidism
In general, it is possible to treat hyperthyroidism and patients are advised to consult an endocrinologist specialized in hormonal conditions, who can suggest the most appropriate method of treatment. Treatment usually takes the form of:
- Medications
- Radiotherapy: treatment with radioactive iodine that damages the thyroid and causes less thyroid hormone production.
- Surgery: with the aim of partially or totally removing the thyroid, although consequently it will no longer be able to produce thyroid hormone.
Which specialist to contact?
Hyperthyroidism is a pathology that often requires the participation of a team of experts composed of endocrinologists, diabetologists, internal medicine physicians and general surgeons in order to be correctly diagnosed and treated.