Hyperthyroidism
Key points
- Hyperthyroidism is an imbalance of metabolism caused by overproduction of thyroid hormone.
- It produces several hormones which control the way that every cell in the body uses energy (metabolism).
- Signs and tests Vital signs (temperature, pulse, rate of breathing, blood pressure) show increased heart rate.
- Treatment varies depending on the cause of the condition and the severity of symptoms.
Alternative names
Thyrotoxicosis; Overactive thyroid
Definition
Hyperthyroidism is an imbalance of metabolism caused by overproduction of thyroid hormone.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The thyroid gland is located in the neck. It produces several hormones which control the way that every cell in the body uses energy (metabolism). The thyroid is part of the endocrine system.
Hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis occurs when the thyroid releases too many of its hormones over a short (acute) or long (chronic) period of time. Many diseases and conditions can cause this problem, including:
- Graves' disease
- Non-cancerous growths of the thyroid gland or pituitary gland
- Tumors of the testes or ovaries
- Inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the thyroid due to viral infections or other causes
- Ingestion of excessive amounts of thyroid hormone
- Ingestion of excessive iodine
Graves' disease accounts for 85% of all cases of hyperthyroidism.
Related topics:
- Painless (silent) thyroiditis
- Factitious hyperthyroidism
- Hypothyroidism
- Graves' disease
Symptoms
- Weight loss
- Increased appetite
- Nervousness
- Restlessness
- Heat intolerance
- Increased sweating
- Fatigue
- Frequent bowel movements
- Menstrual irregularities in women
- Goiter (visibly enlarged thyroid) may be present
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
- Weakness
- Sleeping difficulty
- Clammy skin
- Skin blushing or flushing
- Bounding pulse
- Nausea and vomiting
- Lack of menstruation
- Itching - overall
Frequently asked questions
What is hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is an imbalance of metabolism caused by overproduction of thyroid hormone.
What are the risk factors for hyperthyroidism?
The thyroid gland is located in the neck. It produces several hormones which control the way that every cell in the body uses energy (metabolism). The thyroid is part of the endocrine system. Hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis occurs when the thyroid releases too many of its hormones over a short (acute) or long (chronic) period of time.
What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism?
- Weight loss
- Increased appetite
- Nervousness
- Restlessness
- Heat intolerance
- Increased sweating
- Fatigue
- Frequent bowel movements
- Menstrual irregularities in women
- Goiter (visibly enlarged thyroid) may be present Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
- Weakness
- Sleeping difficulty
- Clammy skin
- Skin blushing or flushing
- Bounding pulse
- Nausea and vomiting
- Lack of menstruation
- Itching - overall
- Heartbeat sensations
- Hand tremor
- Hair loss
- Diarrhea
- Breast development in men
- High blood pressure
- Protruding eyes (exophthalmos) Signs and tests Vital signs (temperature, pulse, rate of breathing, blood pressure) show increased heart…
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.