Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism:

Excess of free triiodothyronine or free thyroxine is associated Hyperthyroidism. It is also known as thyroid storm by some people. Actually, hyperthyroidism developing due to excess production of thyroid hormones by active thyroid glands.

Causes of hyperthyroidism:

The main causes of hyperthyroidism are toxic thyroid adenoma, Graves’ disease and toxic multinodular goiter. Thyrotoxicosis can be occurred in this disease. Graves disease can be caused by excess production of thyroid hormone by thyroid gland. Graves disease is commonly found in women, but uncommon in old aged lady. Sometimes, nodule in thyroid may be caused hyperthyroidism.

Symptoms and signs of hyperthyroidism

• Nervousness
• Excessive fatigue
• Shortness in breath
• Problems in menstrual periods.
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Hyperactivity
• Vomiting, nausea and diarrhea
• Palpitations
• Increase in bowel movements
• Excessive sweating
• Fast heartbeat
• Low body weight
• Hair loss
• anxiety
• Weak muscle and staring gaze
• Difficulty in sleeping
• Red and swollen eyes
• Warm moist skin

Diagnosis of hyperthyroidism:

Blood tests will be recommended by the health care providers to measure the level of thyroid stimulating hormone in blood. Specific antibodies such as anti-TSH- receptor antibodies may be preferred to detect the hyperthyroidism. Sometimes, scintigraphy is used to distinguish hyperthyroidism.

Physical examination and family history of hyperthyroidism can be used by the doctor for diagnosis the disease. Computerized tomography tests, ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging may be help to determine the hyperthyroidism.

Complications:

• Weak and brittle bones
• Heart problems such as heart attack
• Redness and swelling of skin
• Thyrotoxic crisis
• Eye problems such as double vision or bulging

Treatment of hyperthyroidism:

Surgery is used to remove the thyroid. Radioactive iodine method is very effective to treat hyperthyroidism. This treatment is given by liquid or pill to remove the hyperactive gland. After a routine iodine used in a scan. Radioactive iodine is given to determine hyperthyroidism.

The active cells are picked up this iodine in the thyroid and remove them. There is no side-effects of radioactive iodine method. This method is safe and effective, but don’t use it during breast feeding and pregnancy. Sometimes, thyrostatics drugs such as methimazole are used to reduce the excess production of thyroid hormones.

Anti-thyroid drugs are commonly used by pregnant women, young adults and others to minimize the hypothyroidism. You can eat foods that contain cabbage, rutabagas, turnips, pears, cauliflower and broccoli. People with hyperthyroidism should be avoided dairy products and drinks caffeine.

When to seek medical advice

If people experience signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as excessive sweating, fast heartbeats, and swelling in eyes, go to your doctor immediately. It is an important to see your doctor, if you already treated and being treated.

Prevention:

• You should avoid smoking.
• You should drink lots of water.
• You should get knowledge of family history.
• You should be attentive to signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
• Apply cool compresses to affected eyes for few minutes.
• You wear sunglasses before going outside.
• Apply OTC creams to the affected area.