Symptoms and Signs of Hyperthyroidism

Doctor's Notes on Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism refers to the presence of an overactive thyroid gland or the presence of elevated levels of thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland plays an important role in regulating numerous metabolic processes throughout the body.  

Graves' disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. Many other health problems, including taking excess thyroid hormone medications, can cause elevated levels of thyroid hormones in the bloodstream. 

Signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism may include:

• increased heart rate, 
• weight loss, 
• heart palpitations, 
• frequent bowel movements,
• fine or brittle hair, 
• sleep problems, 
• depression, 
• thinning skin, 
• fatigue, and 
• irregular vaginal bleeding or problems with menstruation in women. 

Other symptoms may include:

• agitation, 
• restlessness, 
• intolerance to heat, 
• tremors, and 
• anxiety. 

Graves’ disease can also be associated with eye disease and apparent bulging of the eyes.

What Is the Treatment for Hyperthyroidism?

Treatment options for hyperthyroidism may include:

• Surgery to remove the thyroid gland
• Destruction of the thyroid gland with radioactive iodine
• Antithyroid drugs that block the ability of the thyroid gland to produce hormones
• Drugs that do not reduce thyroid hormone levels but manage the symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as beta blockers to decrease heart rate and shakiness