Thyroid disorders are a common issue, and an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism, is one of the most prevalent forms of thyroid diseases. The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism. An overactive thyroid produces too much of these hormones, causing a range of symptoms.
Symptoms of High Thyroid The symptoms of high thyroid are diverse and can range from mild to severe. Some of the most common symptoms include:
Rapid weight loss: Hyperthyroidism increases the body’s metabolism, causing weight loss even if the person’s diet and exercise habits have not changed.
Increased appetite: Despite rapid weight loss, many people with hyperthyroidism have an increased appetite.
Nervousness and anxiety: Hyperthyroidism can cause anxiety, nervousness, and restlessness.
Increased sweating: People with hyperthyroidism often sweat more than usual, even in cool environments.
Fatigue: Despite increased metabolism, many people with hyperthyroidism feel tired and fatigued.
Irregular menstrual periods: Women with hyperthyroidism may experience changes in their menstrual cycle, including irregular periods or heavy bleeding.
Palpitations: Rapid heartbeat and palpitations are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Enlarged thyroid gland: The thyroid gland may become swollen, causing a lump in the neck.
Treatment for High Thyroid The treatment for hyperthyroidism depends on the severity of the condition and the cause of the overactivity. Some of the most common treatments for high thyroid include:
Antithyroid medication: These drugs help to slow down the production of thyroid hormones. Antithyroid medications are typically the first line of treatment for hyperthyroidism.
Radioactive iodine therapy: This treatment involves taking a small amount of radioactive iodine, which is absorbed by the thyroid gland and damages the cells that produce thyroid hormones.
Surgery: If antithyroid medications and radioactive iodine therapy are not effective, surgery to remove the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy) may be necessary.
Beta-blockers: These drugs help to control symptoms such as rapid heartbeat and palpitations.
Thyroid hormone replacement therapy: After surgery or radioactive iodine treatment, people with hyperthyroidism may need to take thyroid hormone replacement therapy to replace the hormones the thyroid gland used to produce.
Conclusion Hyperthyroidism is a common thyroid disorder that occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. Symptoms of high thyroid can range from mild to severe and may include weight loss, nervousness, fatigue, and irregular menstrual periods. Treatment for high thyroid depends on the severity of the condition and the cause of the overactivity. Antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, surgery, beta-blockers, and thyroid hormone replacement therapy are common treatments for hyperthyroidism. If you have symptoms of high thyroid, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.