Overactive Thyroid in Women

Medically speaking, an overactive thyroid in women or men, (the thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland in front of our neck), is referred to as hyperthyroidism. Its reverse case, on the other hand, is called hypothyroidism. Both these cases are equally complicated and for females, these both cases can present hosts of medical problems that require immediate attention.

Why is the thyroid such an important gland in our body? The thyroid gland, basically, secretes two major hormones - thyroxine (T-4) and triiodothyronine (T-3). Another hormone, known as Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) secreted by the master gland, the pituitary gland regulates the working of the thyroid gland. Both these glands, in essence, are responsible for regulating some major processes of our body. For instance, metabolism and temperature regulation.

Overactive Thyroid Symptoms in Women

Owing to their body structure and various bodily activities like menstruation, pregnancy and menopause, overactive thyroid symptoms in women may cause lots of problems in their health. Understanding various symptoms of overactive thyroid in women is important, to know if you should consult a doctor.

The major symptoms that have been commonly observed in cases of overactive thyroid in women are irregular heartbeat and sudden weight loss. Many women, though with an increase in their appetite over a specific period of time, may suffer from weight loss due to an overactive thyroid. Fatigue, weakness, hot flashes, nervousness, joint pain, anxiety, poor concentration, and irregular menstrual cycles are some important signs of an overactive thyroid in women.

Overactive Thyroid Treatment

The first step in the treatment of an overactive thyroid is proper diagnosis. Hyperthyroidism is generally detected by an endocrinologist, by reviewing the medical history of the patient. Moreover, it is also accompanied by a physical examination and most importantly blood tests of the patient.

As stated earlier in this article, thyroid stimulating hormones form an important component of thyroid and hence their levels in the blood is measured to arrive at any conclusion about cases of overactive thyroid in women. The most common treatment options that are recommended by doctors are:

1. Anti-thyroid Medications
2. Radioactive Iodine
3. Thyroidectomy

Anti-thyroid Medications
Also known as thionamides, anti-thyroid medications are the most common treatment option for hyperthyroidism. They help in reduction of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), the two hormones produced by thyroid gland. Anti-thyroid medications are generally considered a short term option for treatment before the person has to go for surgery. It's majorly advised as a treatment option to women with overactive thyroid problems during pregnancy. It is believed that anti-thyroid medications reduce the risk of birth defect during pregnancy. However, they must only be taken after proper advice from medical experts, as every individual case may be different.

Radioactive Iodine
Radioactive iodine therapy is another treatment option considered for an overactive thyroid in women. It is given in the liquid form to destroy the thyroid gland. It has been generally found that although radiation can cause thyroid cancer, using radioactive iodine under guidance of an expert endocrinologist helps in treating overactive thyroid cases. However, there are various guidelines to be followed when an individual is on medication of radioactive iodine, as he/she can expose other people to radiation. Pregnant women must strictly avoid radioactive iodine treatment.

Thyroidectomy
In this method of thyroid gland removal, some or all the gland is removed. During surgery, an incision is made in the skin and the thyroid gland is removed. Depending on your age and health, you have to spend some duration in the hospital. Remember that surgery in hyperthyroidism is used only in rare cases, like if the gland has become so big that it makes swallowing and eating food extremely difficult. It can also be an urgent need in case of pregnant women, if they are unable to tolerate anti-thyroid medications or are allergic towards it.

Overactive thyroid in women can generally be controlled and cured, if detected at an early stage. Here, I would like to highlight a very basic fact that, in getting treatment for this complication, the role of a doctor is very important. Ensure you choose a medical expert who is able to discuss your concerns and issues at a personal level, as the treatment can extend for long time.