HYPERTHYROIDISM

Written by: Verneda Lights, Matthew Solan

Medically reviewed by Judi Macrin, MD
29 Jun 2016

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid makes too much T4, T3 or both.

CAUSES
A variety of conditions can cause hyperthyroidism. Grave’s disease, an autoimmune disorder, is the most common
cause of hyperthyroidism. It causes antibodies to stimulate the thyroid to secrete too much hormone. Grave’s
disease occurs more often in women than in men. It tends to run in families, which suggests genetic link.

OTHER CAUSES
● Excess iodine, a key ingredient in T4 and T3
● Inflammation of thyroid
● Tumors of ovary or testes, tumors of thyroid or pituitary gland

SYMPTOMS
High amount of T4, T3 or both can cause an excessively high metabolic rate. This is called a hyperactive metabolic
state.
At this state, you may experience a rapid heartbeat rate, elevated blood pressure, hand tremors, sweating a lot,
weight loss…

OTHER SYMPTOMS
● increased appetite
● Nervousness, stress, restlessness
● Hairless
● Nausea and vomiting
● Dizziness, itching, vomiting, nausea, weakness
● Inability to concentrate
● Irregular menstrual cycle
● Thyroid gland swelling
● Shortness of breath

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO IMPROVE SYMPTOMS?

Eating proper diet, with a focus on calcium and sodium is important. Work with your doctor to create healthy
guidelines for your diet, nutritional supplements, and exercise.
Hyperthyroidism can also cause your bones to become weak and thin, which can lead to osteoporosis. Taking
vitamin D and calcium supplements during and after-treatment can help strengthen your bones. Your doctor can
tell you how much vitamin D and calcium to take each day.

OUTLOOK
Stress and infections can cause thyroid storm. Thyroid storm happens when a large amount of thyroid hormone is
released out and results in worsening the symptoms.
THE long-term outlook for hyperthyroidism depends on its cause can go away without treatment. Others, like
grave’s disease, get worse over time without treatment. The complications of grave’s disease can be
Life threatening affects your long-term quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment of symptoms improve the
Long-term outlook.

KAPLAN ABATE