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Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is the term to describe activity of the Endocrine System that affects the Thyroid where “over-active” causes several medical problems and complications.

Normally the thyroid gland allows for a balance of thyroid hormones.

But in Hyperthyroidism, the Thyroid Gland produces a high level, specifically in excess, of thyroid hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine (T4 and T3 respectively)

Metabolism and other body functions are closely associated with thyroid hormones.

When the thyroid is “underactive” it is called Hypothyroidism.

Causes:

–  Grave’s Disease
–  Thyroid Adenoma
–  Multinodular goiter
–  Thyroiditis
–  Medication
–  Pregnancy

Symptoms:

–  Weight loss
–  Increase Appetite
–  Nausea
–  Vomiting
–  Diarrhea
–  Depression
–  Confusion
–  Anxiety
–  Tremors
–  Muscle pains
–  Heart palpitations

Thyrotic Crisis

1.) This is a severe complication of hyperthyroidism that is only seen rarely

2.)  Symptoms that can be seen during this crisis include:

–  Fever (+104.0)
–  Rapid heartbeat
–  Vomiting
–  Dehydration
–  Diarrhea
–  Coma
–  Death

Diagnosis

1.)  Blood work to measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is essential

2.)  Blood work to check T3 and T4 may be helpful as well

3.)  Biopsy may be necessary of thyroid tissue

4.)  Ultrasounds and other radioactive scans or tests may be useful

Treatment

Thyrostatics

.         Methimazole
.         Prophlthiouracil
.         Carbimazole (from the UK)

Betablockers

Surgery

Radioiodine