Introduction
Hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones, speeding up the body's metabolic processes.
Causes
Graves' Disease: An autoimmune disorder and the most common cause of hyperthyroidism, where antibodies stimulate the thyroid to produce excess hormones.
Thyroid Nodules: Toxic adenomas or multinodular goiter can lead to overproduction of thyroid hormones.
Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland can cause temporary hyperthyroidism.
Excessive Iodine: High iodine intake from diet or medications can lead to hyperthyroidism.
Medications: Certain medications can induce hyperthyroidism.
Symptoms
Weight loss
Heat intolerance
Increased appetite
Tremors
Palpitations and tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
Anxiety and irritability
Increased sweating
Goiter (enlarged thyroid gland)
Menstrual irregularities
Diagnosis
Blood Tests: Measurement of TSH and free T4 levels. Low TSH and high T4 indicate hyperthyroidism.
Thyroid Antibody Tests: To diagnose Graves' disease.
Radioactive Iodine Uptake Test: To determine the cause of hyperthyroidism by measuring how much iodine the thyroid gland absorbs.
Pathophysiology of Hyperthyroidism:
Graves' Disease: Autoimmune disorder where antibodies stimulate the thyroid gland to produce excessive thyroid hormones.
Thyroid Nodules: Overactive nodules can produce excess thyroid hormones independently.
Treatment
Antithyroid Medications: Methimazole and propylthiouracil reduce thyroid hormone production.
Radioactive Iodine Therapy: Destroys overactive thyroid cells.
Beta-Blockers: Manage symptoms like rapid heart rate and tremors.
Thyroid Surgery: Partial or complete removal of the thyroid gland in severe cases.