Hyperactive Thyroidism

Hyperactive thyroidism, also known as hyperthyroidism, is a term used to describe the condition, where overactive tissue in the thyroid gland cause overproduction of thyroid hormones, T3 and T4 to be more precise. Hormone T3 is also known as triiodothyronine and hormone T4 is known as thyroxine. The thyroid hormones are necessary for proper regulation of metabolism of the body. There are various symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Let's see what are they.

Hyperactive Thyroidism Symptoms

Like previously mentioned, thyroid hormones control the metabolism of the body. When the thyroid levels are on the higher side, every function of the body tends to speed up. The most common hyperactive thyroid symptoms are

• Nervousness
• Irritability
• Increased perspiration
• Heart racing
• Anxiety
• Hand and leg tremors
• Difficulty in sleeping
• Thinning of hair
• Thinning of skin
• Brittle nails
• Muscular weakness, especially in upper arms and thighs
• Frequent bowel movements (but diarrhea is uncommon)
• Weight loss in spite of good appetite
• Light menstrual flow in case of women
• Irregular menstrual cycle

Initially it is difficult, to detect hyperthyroidism, as it is often mistaken for simple nervousness. Only when the other symptoms do become prominent, does it become clear, that it is a case of hyperthyroidism. In some patients, enlarged thyroid gland (swelling of the front of the neck), known as goiter is also seen.

Causes

The most common cause is over production of thyroid hormones. In some cases, Graves disease is also known to cause this thyroid condition. This is the condition, when antibodies present in blood, stimulate the thyroid to grow and cause secretion of too much thyroid hormone. This is a hereditary condition and is known to affect young women.

Another cause is lumps or nodules in the thyroid gland, which gradually grow and cause increase in activity of the thyroid gland, that in turn leads to increased output of thyroid hormone in the blood. Such a condition is known as toxic nodular or multinodular goiter.

In some cases thyroid problems can be a temporary condition, if the person suffers from a condition called thyroiditis. This condition arises, when there is a problem with the immune system or a viral condition causes the gland to secrete extra thyroid hormone. Excessive iodine in the blood can also lead to the problem. Last but not the least, over-intake of thyroid hormone can also lead to the condition.

Hyperactive Thyroid Treatments

The treatment for hyperactive thyroid is different for different condition. The cause of the problem will determine the line of treatment. The treatment to be given depends on the age of the patient, type of hyperthyroidism, severity of the condition, other medical conditions, etc. There are anti-thyroid drugs that are prescribed, along with hyperactive thyroid diet depending on the condition.

Radioactive iodine can be prescribed to cause damage to the cells, that make thyroid hormone. There are also iodine capsules, that are given to the patients, which eventually results in shrinkage of the thyroid gland and reduces the production of the hormone and return to normal blood levels.

Surgery is the last measure use for treating this thyroid condition. It can be partial or total removal of the thyroid gland, in patients, who suffer from large goiter or suffer from relapses, after subsequent drug therapy.

As a part of alternative treatment, a patient suffering from hyperactive thyroidism, may be prescribed a diet , which is rich in broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, turnips, peaches, pears, etc, that will help in naturally suppress the production of thyroid hormone.

When you notice any symptoms of hyperthyroidism, it is recommended, that you visit a health care professional immediately and not self treat yourself. Remember to continue to monitor your condition consistently, to see any side-effects of the treatment you are undergoing.