Hyperthyroidism – causes, symptoms and treatments

 

Introduction

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), leading to an accelerated metabolism. This affects the heart, weight, and nervous system.

 

Main causes

 

• Graves’ disease (most common autoimmune cause)

• Toxic thyroid nodules

• Excess iodine (rare)

• Certain medications (amiodarone, interferon)

Frequent symptoms

 

• Rapid weight loss despite normal or increased appetite

• Nervousness, irritability, anxiety

• Palpitations, tachycardia

• Excessive sweating, heat intolerance

• Fine tremors of the hands

• Goiter (thyroid enlargement)

• Eye problems (exophthalmos in Graves’ disease)

Possible complications

 

• Thyrotoxic crisis (life-threatening emergency)

• Heart failure

• Osteoporosis

Treatments

 

• Antithyroid drugs (carbimazole, propylthiouracil)

• Beta-blockers (to control cardiac symptoms)

• Radioactive iodine (definitive treatment in some cases)

• Surgery (partial or total thyroidectomy)

Prevention and follow-up

 

• Screening in case of suggestive symptoms

• Regular endocrinology follow-up

• Monitoring of hormone levels (TSH, T3, T4)

Conclusion

Hyperthyroidism is a serious but manageable condition.

 

Early diagnosis and proper medical care can prevent complications and restore quality of life.

---