Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, is an endocrine disorder in which the thyroid gland in the neck produces hormone in excess of what the body requires, speeding up many functions. It affects women more often than men, and people older than 60 more than younger adults. Graves' disease, an autoimmune condition, is the most frequent cause; others include overactive thyroid nodules, thyroiditis, excess iodine and overuse of thyroid hormone replacement. Typical features are nervousness, poor sleep, tiredness, tremor, heat intolerance, weight loss, a fast or irregular heartbeat and goitre. Left untreated, it can damage the heart, bones and eyes, complicate pregnancy, and occasionally precipitate a life-threatening thyroid storm. Blood tests of thyroid hormones confirm the diagnosis, and imaging such as a thyroid scan helps find the cause. It is usually treatable with antithyroid medicines, radioiodine therapy or surgery, while beta blockers ease symptoms meanwhile.

Seek urgent care for very high thirst and urination with vomiting or drowsiness, or for severe weakness with a very slow or fast pulse. See a doctor for unexplained weight change, constant tiredness, feeling unusually hot or cold, or a family history of diabetes or thyroid disease. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.