Hyperthyroidism refers to an overactive thyroid gland. This gland is responsible for secreting the hormone thyroxine, which, among other things, regulates the body’s metabolism.
When this production is disturbed, hypothyroidism occurs if the production of hormones becomes slow, and hyperthyroidism if, on the other hand, the production of hormones becomes slow. hyperthyroidism if, on the other hand, it speeds up too much.. Either condition should be treated immediately.
What is hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism has very clear symptoms. However, it is the specialist who must carry out studies, diagnose and prescribe the appropriate treatment. It is important to go to the doctor at the first symptoms.
The greatest risk of hyperthyroidism is that if it is not treated in time, it can cause serious damage to the heart.. For this reason, in the presence of symptoms, it is necessary to visit the endocrinologist, who is the specialist in the subject.
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What is hyperthyroidism and what causes it?
Hyperthyroidism is an inordinate acceleration of thyroid function. It is also known as an overactive thyroidIt is also known as overactive thyroid, because the activity of the gland is higher than normal. The thyroid is responsible for producing the hormones T3 and T4, which are related to the functioning of metabolism among other functions, such as body temperature and heart rate.
There are several reasons why thyroid function may be altered and lead to hyperthyroidism. One of them is thyroiditis. Although the reasons are not known, it can happen that the thyroid suffers an inflammation, which at the same time causes an increased production of T3 and T4 hormones. This affectation becomes chronic, leading to hyperthyroidism.
Another cause is the occurrence of toxic goiter. When an adenoma separates from the rest of the gland, it produces too much T4, in addition to forming lumps which manifest as an enlargement of the gland. This overproduction of T4 results in hyperthyroidism. One of the most obvious manifestations of this problem is the widening of the neck..
The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease. In this condition, what happens is that the immune system is affected, antibodies stimulate the thyroid too much and cause an uncontrolled amount of hormones, which results in an overactive thyroid.
Symptoms
Hyperthyroidism has different symptoms than hypothyroidism. Because this gland this gland is involved in metabolic functioning and heart rate, the symptoms that usually occur are different from those of hypothyroidism.The symptoms that usually occur are related to these two functions.
The problem comes when these symptoms are confused with other diseases, because it could not be treated properly or in time. So, in case of any suspicion and appearance of one or more of these symptoms, a visit to the endocrinologist will be the best option.
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1. Weight loss
The most obvious and frequent symptom of hyperthyroidism is weight loss.. When there is a sudden and involuntary weight loss, despite consuming the same food and in the same amount, hyperthyroidism may be suspected.
Because this disease accelerates the metabolism, food and fats are processed excessively and this produces an accelerated and excessive weight loss. Especially in the second month, this becomes more evident.
2. Rapid and irregular heartbeat
The thyroid gland is involved with the heart rate, so this function is also altered. There are palpitations above 100 per minute, even at rest, and the heart rate is also altered.The heart rate is also altered, producing arrhythmia.
Along with this symptom may appear chest pains, like small blows. This is greatly intensified when performing any physical activity, no matter how minor it may be. At the same time there is a lot of fatigue due to the effort of the body to maintain that rhythm in the palpitations.
3. Swelling at the base of the neck
Another obvious symptom of hyperthyroidism is the appearance of goiter. Although this enlargement does not always occur, its development is directly related to the thyroid gland and its hyperactivity.
Any painless swelling or enlargement of the neck should be checked immediately before other symptoms appear.before other symptoms appear. This is a clear sign that the thyroid gland has undergone drastic changes.
4. Fatigue, nervousness and irritability
Thyroid disturbances are manifested by fatigue and irritability. Because the heartbeat is irregular and too much, the heart rate and blood pumping are also working at an accelerated rate and chronic fatigue occurs.
This is especially noticeable when fatigue is felt even when no physical activity has been performed. Paradoxically, despite the tiredness there is difficulty in sleeping, because the palpitations do not go down and this causes irritability and nervousness. and this causes irritability and nervousness.
5. Thin skin and fragile hair
If the skin begins to feel too thin and the hair too brittle, it may be a symptom of hyperthyroidism. Once the metabolism is disturbed, all functions related to it are also disturbed.
When it comes to hormone secretion, the menstrual cycle can also be altered, the menstrual cycle can also be affected and along with this, the functions that keep the skin and scalp strong and toned.
Treatment
Hyperthyroidism can cause serious heart problems. That is why it must be treated early. The good news is that proper and timely treatment has fast, permanent results and a good outlook.
Diagnosis is usually made by the endocrinologist. Laboratory tests and thyroid scintigraphy imaging tests are needed, especially if goiter is suspected. After analyzing the results, a definitive diagnosis is made.
Part of the treatment is administration of radioactive iodine (an antithyroid drug) and in some cases surgery is in some cases surgery is required to remove the gland.. Unless otherwise directed by your health care provider, it is suggested that you do not exercise or carry excessive weight until the hyperthyroidism is under control.