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How is Hyperthyroidism Detected?

Hyperthyroidism is diagnosed through various tests, including blood work, thyroid scans, and medical examinations. Early detection, aided by regular check-ups, helps in managing symptoms and seeking timely treatment.

  • 07 Oct 2024
  • 3 min read
  • 8 views

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormones. Thus, the overactive thyroid boosts metabolism in the body, causing many symptoms. The thyroid gland hormones control the way the body uses energy and these hormones can affect nearly every organ in our body and control many bodily functions like breathing, heart rate, weight gain or loss, digestion, and moods.

In some cases, several health conditions can lead to hyperthyroidism, most commonly Graves disease. The hyperactive condition of the thyroid gland more commonly occurs in women than men between the ages of 20 to 40 years.

Diagnosis of hyperthyroidism

Doctors will suggest any of the following tests for the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism when a patient complains of certain symptoms.

  • Medical history and Physical examination:

    To diagnose hyperthyroidism, a doctor may ask for our medical and family history to evaluate the chances of hyperthyroidism. During the physical examination, the doctor will check the following:
  • Thyroid gland:

    The doctor will examine and feel the outside of the neck for any enlargement or bumps.
  • Eyes:

    Eyes are examined for swelling, redness, bulging, etc.
  • Heartbeat:

    Heartbeat is checked for any irregularity
  • Hand tremor:

    Hands will be checked to see if they tremble when stretched out.
  • Skin:

    Skin is checked to see if it is warm or moist
  • Blood test:

    Blood samples will be tested to look for high levels of thyroid hormones. This is termed thyroid function testing. In hyperthyroidism, the levels of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4 will be above normal, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) lower than normal.
  • Radioactive Iodine Uptake (RAIU) test and thyroid scan:

    In the RAIU test, we will be given a small dose of radioiodine to consume. After 6 and 24 hours, the doctor will scan our neck using a device called a gamma probe to see how much of the radiotracer got absorbed in the thyroid gland and in which areas it got collected. A high absorption of radioiodine indicates an overproduction of T4. The gamma camera takes images of the thyroid gland, where the areas that collected the radiotracer will appear bright on the screen. These images help the doctor to look for any nodules in the gland.
  • Thyroid ultrasound:

    Ultrasound of the thyroid is done to find thyroid nodules that can affect the functioning of the thyroid gland. The test uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the gland.

Conclusion

There is no specific way to prevent thyroid, however, undergoing regular health check-ups can help in early hyperthyroidism diagnosis. This will let us seek timely medical treatment. People can manage hyperthyroidism by including some dietary changes in their daily lives, along with medications. If we have a health insurance plan, it will help us cover the cost of tests, treatments, pre and post-hospitalisation expenses, etc.

Also read:

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.

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