What is Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormone, commonly known as an overactive thyroid. This condition speeds up the body’s metabolism, causing symptoms such as sudden weight loss, hand tremors and irregular heartbeat. Various methods can be used to treat hyperthyroidism; these methods include antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine therapy and surgical intervention. In some cases, the disease may resolve spontaneously without any treatment.

What are the Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism can cause many different symptoms and some symptoms can be confused with other health problems. Here are the most common symptoms:

• Causeless weight loss
• Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
• Heart palpitations
• Increased appetite
• Irritability, stress and anxiety
• Trembling hands and fingers
• Excessive sweating
• Irregular menstrual cycle Irregular menstrual cycle
• Hypersensitivity to heat
• Frequent bowel movements or diarrhoea
• Enlargement of the neck (goitre) Enlargement of the neck (goitre)
• Constant feeling of tiredness Muscle weakness
• Muscle weakness
• Sleep problems Sleep problems
• Thin, brittle hair
• Hot and humid skin

In older people, symptoms may often be milder and symptoms such as weight loss, depression or fatigue may be more prominent.

What are the Causes of Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism can be caused by different health problems that cause the thyroid gland to overproduce hormones. The thyroid gland is a small gland located in the front of the neck and secretes the hormones thyroxine (T-4) and triiodothyronine (T-3), which control metabolism. Here are the main causes of Hyperthyroidism:

• Graves’ Disease: Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, is the most common cause of Hyperthyroidism.
• Overactive Thyroid Nodules: Thyroid nodules such as toxic adenoma or multinodular goitre can cause excess hormone production.
• Thyroiditis: Temporary hyperthyroidism may develop as a result of inflammation of the thyroid gland.

Hyperthyroidism Risk Factors

The risk of developing hyperthyroidism may increase due to certain factors:

• Family history of thyroid disease
• History of autoimmune disease such as Graves’ disease
• Chronic diseases such as pernicious anaemia
• Thyroiditis after recent pregnancy

Complications of Hyperthyroidism

Untreated Hyperthyroidism can lead to serious health problems. Here are the main complications:

• Heart Problems: It can lead to serious heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation (heart rhythm disorder) and congestive heart failure.
• Brittle Bones: Hyperthyroidism can cause calcium loss in the bones, leading to osteoporosis.
• Vision Problems: Thyroid eye disease, especially due to Graves’ disease, can affect the muscles and tissues around the eyes. Symptoms such as swollen eyes, double vision and light sensitivity may occur.
• Thyrotoxic Crisis: This is a rare condition that requires urgent medical attention and is characterised by symptoms such as fever, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting and delirium.

When to consult a doctor?

If you are experiencing weight loss without trying, if you notice symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat or swelling at the base of the neck, you should consult a doctor. Once hyperthyroidism has been diagnosed, regular follow-up checks are important for the management of the disease.