What is hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is the condition of an overactive thyroid gland, resulting in the production of more thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) than the body needs.

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How common is it?

Hyperthyroidism is more common in women and in smokers. Its prevalence is about 1.3%, while in older women it reaches 4-5%.

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What are the causes of hyperthyroidism?

The most common causes of hyperthyroidism are:

  • Autoimmune origin- Grave’s disease
  • Autonomous (overactive) thyroid nodule (toxic adenoma), multiple autonomous nodules (toxic multinodular goiter); and
  • various forms of thyroiditis.

If the cause of hyperthyroidism is a thyroiditis, i.e. an inflammation of the thyroid gland, it may be transient, as in postpartum period, called postpartum thyroiditis.

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What are the symptoms and signs of hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism can mimic various diseases as it manifests with a variety of symptoms and signs:

  • Weight loss with increased food intake
  • Fast heartbeat (Tachycardia)
  • Arrhythmia (Irregular heartbeat)
  • Nervousness, anxiety, emotional instability
  • Tremor
  • Sweating
  • Increased sensitivity to heat
  • Diarrhoea
  • Menstrual irregularities in women
  • Fatigue
  • Fine brittle hair
  • Goiter (enlarged thyroid)
  • Bulging eyes
  • Double vision (Diplopia)
  • Dry eyes, sensitivity to light (photophobia)
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How is hyperthyroidism diagnosed?

Hyperthyroidism is diagnosed by blood tests, physical examination and history taking, while specialized imaging studies are required to investigate the cause.

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What are the complications of hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism can cause several complications:

  • Cardiovascular problems
  • Arrhythmias
  • Osteopenia, osteoporosis
  • Ophthalmopathy, double vision, loss of vision
  • Infertility
  • Dermatopathy
  • Thyrotoxic crisis, coma
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How is hyperthyroidism treated?

There are 3 treatment options for hyperthyroidism and the choice of the appropriate treatment depends on the cause of hyperthyroidism, comorbidities, age and patient preference. These options are:

  • the anti-thyroid drugs
  • radioactive iodine, and
  • surgical removal of the thyroid gland
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