Hyperthyroidism is a condition when the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone and may cause the body’s metabolism to speed up.

What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism?

  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Fast or uneven heartbeats
  • Trembling
  • Sweating and having problems dealing with hot weather
  • Anxiety, irritability
  • Weakness especially in the arms and thighs
  • Frequent bowel motions
  • Menstrual irregularities in women
  • Swelling in the neck called a ‘goiter’

What causes hyperthyroidism?

There are many causes of hyperthyroidism. Some of the more common causes include: Graves’ disease (an autoimmune condition), thyroid nodules producing excess thyroid hormone outside the control of the body and thyroiditis which is inflammation and destruction of the thyroid gland leading to release of pre-formed thyroid hormones.

How is hyperthyroidism diagnosed?

There is a simple blood test call thyroid function test which can diagnose if the thyroid is overactive. If there is a problem with the blood test, other tests may need to be ordered such as thyroid scan (nuclear medicine test) or thyroid ultrasound.

How is hyperthyroidism managed?

  • Two types of medicines can be used to treat hyperthyroidism: (1) anti-thyroid medicine to reduce the thyroid hormone level and (2) beta blocker medicine to help manage the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
  • Radioactive iodine comes in the form of a pill and acts to destroy much of the thyroid gland. The amount of radiation used is small. It does not increase the risk of getting cancer.
  • Surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid is needed in some circumstances.

Useful link
http://www.thyroid.org/thyroid-information/