Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which too much thyroid hormone is produced. Excess thyroid hormone affects the heart, nervous system, and muscles. Symptoms may include muscle weakness, hand tremors, heart palpitations, fatigue, and irritability. The most important cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease. Graves’ disease, which arises due to genes and the immune system, causes the thyroid gland to produce more hormone than normal. A typical noticeable finding in these patients is that their eyes appear to bulge out of their sockets.
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
- Muscle weakness
- Hand tremors
- Fatigue
- Heart palpitations
- Weight loss (even if eaten a lot)
- Increased bowel movements; Therefore, diarrhea problem
- Irritability
- Eye discomfort and difficulty seeing
- Sweating, intolerance to heat
- Menstrual irregularities
- Infertility
Causes of Hyperthyroidism
The most important cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease. Due to this disease, antibodies formed in the immune system against the thyroid gland cause the thyroid gland to produce more hormone than normal. The most noticeable symptom in these patients is that the eyes appear to bulge out. On the other hand, thyroid nodules, taking thyroid hormone supplements, and inflammation of the thyroid glands are also among the causes of hyperthyroidism.
Treatment of Hyperthyroidism
In hyperthyroidism, radioactive iodine therapy is applied first. Iodine, labeled with radioactive substances, is absorbed by the thyroid gland and destroys it. After this procedure, administered as a single pill or liquid, the patient is instructed to stay home alone for 1-2 days to avoid spreading radiation. It is an effective method. However, because it destroys the thyroid gland, hormone replacement therapy may be necessary.
If radioactive iodine treatment is not possible, if medications have been ineffective, or if the thyroid gland is very large and obstructing breathing, a thyroidectomy (removal of the thyroid gland) is the definitive solution. Patients must be monitored after radioactive iodine treatment or surgery, and hormone replacement therapy should be given if necessary.
