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Hyperthyroidism
Medical Questions » Hyperthyroidism
| Name: Hyperthyroidism |
| Also known as: Thyrotoxicosis; Grave' s Disease |
| Overactivity of the thyroid gland which sits in the front of the neck and is responsible for secreting a hormone called thyroxine. This acts as the accelerator for every cell in the body. If the level of thyroxine is high, the cells function at an increased rate — if the level of thyroxine is low, the cells function at a less than normal rate. |
Causes of Hyperthyroidism
The most common cause is an autoimmune disease, in which antibodies attack the thyroid gland and over stimulate it. There are numerous other rarer causes. |
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
Patients sweat excessively, lose weight, are nervous, tired, cannot tolerate hot weather and have a mild diarrhea. Other effects include a rapid heart rate, slightly protruding eyes, warm skin, and a slight tremor. Patients tend to fidget, dart quickly in their activity, and speak rapidly. The gland may be grossly enlarged (a goiter) or normal size. |
Tests for Hyperthyroidism
The level of thyroxine and gland activity can be measured by blood tests. Abnormalities may also be seen on an electrocardiogram (ECG). |
Treatment for Hyperthyroidism
Overactivity can only temporarily be controlled by medication. A cure can be obtained by surgically removing most of the thyroid gland or destroying it by giving the patient radioactive iodine (Iodine 131) which concentrates in the gland as it is an essential component of thyroxine. Because there is usually insufficient thyroid gland left behind after these procedures to produce adequate amounts of thyroxine, it is necessary for most patients to take thyroxine tablets on a daily basis.
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Complications of Hyperthyroidism of its treatment
The complications are serious. The weight loss and muscle wasting may become permanent, liver damage and heart failure may be fatal, psychiatric disturbances may lead to hospitalization, eye scarring may lead to blindness, and infertility may occur. |
Likely Outcome of Hyperthyroidism
If treated early, the prognosis is excellent. If delayed until complications occur the outcome is far less favorable. |
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