Hyperthyroidism Slideshow Pictures Take the Thyroid Disorder Quiz Thyroid Symptoms and Solutions Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Stephanie L Lee, MD, PhD, FACE

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid) Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism in children include:

• Symptoms similar to adult symptoms
  
  
• Declining school performance
  
  
• Behavior problems

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism in adults include:

• Insomnia
  
  
• Hand tremors
  
  
• Nervousness
  
  
• Feeling excessively hot in normal or cold temperatures
  
  
• Frequent bowel movements
  
  
• Losing weight despite normal or increased appetite
  
  
• Excessive sweating
  
  
• Menstrual period becomes scant, or ceases altogether
  
  
• Joint pains
  
  
• Difficulty concentrating
  
  
• Eyes seem to be enlarging

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism in the elderly may cause:

• Worsening of angina (chest pain) in persons with heart disease
  
  
• Worsening of shortness of breath in persons with heart failure
  
  
• Muscle weakness, especially in the shoulders and thighs