Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism: Understanding, Symptoms and Treatment

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces and releases excess amounts of thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland is an important organ of the endocrine system, responsible for regulating metabolism and normalizing body functions. It produces hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which play a key role in regulating metabolism, growth and development.

Hyperthyroidism can be caused by several reasons. One of the most common causes is a condition known as Graves' disease or autoimmune thyroiditis, in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, stimulating it to become overactive. Other causes of hyperthyroidism may include thyroid tumors or certain types of medications.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism can vary depending on the individual case, but some common signs include:

1. Unreasonable weight loss: Patients with hyperthyroidism often lose weight despite normal or increased appetite.

2. Rapid heartbeat: An overactive thyroid gland can speed up your heart rate and cause palpitations or irregular heartbeat.

3. Nervousness and irritability: Hyperthyroidism can cause mood changes such as nervousness, irritability, and anxiety.

4. Changes in appearance: Patients may experience hairiness, thinning hair, increased skin moisture, and puffy eyes.

5. Fatigue and weakness: Despite being restless, patients with hyperthyroidism may feel tired and weak.

The diagnosis of hyperthyroidism involves testing the levels of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4 in the blood, as well as measuring the level of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which regulates thyroid function. Additional tests, such as thyroid ultrasound or scintigraphy, may be recommended to determine the cause of hyperthyroidism.

Treatment for hyperthyroidism may include various methods, depending on the cause and severity of the disease. One common approach is the use of medications, such as antithyroid drugs, which reduce the activity of the thyroid gland and the level of thyroid hormones. In some cases, radioactive iodine treatment or surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid gland may be necessary.

It is important to note that hyperthyroidism is a chronic condition and its management requires long-term monitoring and regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels. Patients are also advised to follow a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, moderate physical activity and stress management.

In conclusion, hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excess amounts of thyroid hormones, which can lead to various symptoms and dysfunctions in the body. Timely diagnosis and adequate treatment are important aspects of managing this condition. If you suspect hyperthyroidism, consult your doctor for the necessary tests and appropriate treatment.

Hyperthyroidism is a syndrome caused by hyperfunction of the thyroid gland, accompanied by an increase in its volume and a diffuse increase in thyroid tissue. The function of the gland is increased due to an excess of the hormone thyroxine. Hyperthyroidism can have various origins. It can be primary (diffuse toxic goiter, multinodular toxic goiter) and secondary (hyperthyroidism after treatment with radiation). The hormone thyroxine alone or together with triiodothyroxine worsens the functioning of the cardiovascular system, reducing the flow of blood to the heart muscle, which, in turn, increases the risk of myocardial infarction, the development of arrhythmia and thyrotoxic heart syndrome. In the case of multinodular formation, the disease develops due to excessive production of cells involved in the synthesis of hormones. Such glands are detected through ultrasound diagnostics - ultrasound. Enlargement of the thyroid gland can be combined with other diseases, and also lead to the need for surgical intervention.