Hyperthyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormone. This results from an overactive thyroid. Hyperthyroidism boosts the body’s metabolism. Thyroid hormones can affect nearly every organ in our body and control many bodily functions like breathing, heart rate, weight, digestion, and mood. Several health conditions can lead to hyperthyroidism, most commonly Graves’ disease. Hyperthyroidism more commonly occurs in women of the age 20-40, than men.
What are the symptoms of Hyperthyroidism?
Having an idea of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism helps us to seek early medical care. The doctor will order hormone tests to check for signs of hyperthyroidism. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help manage the condition. Hyperthyroidism symptoms include:
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Unintentional weight loss
- Nervousness, anxiety and irritability
- Increased appetite in young people
- Diarrhoea and more frequent bowel movements
- Blurry vision
- Shaky hands
- Impaired muscles that result in weakness in the body
- Urge to pee more frequently
- Persistent thirst
- Loss of interest in sex
- Menstrual changes in women
- Trouble tolerating excess heat, which results in excessive sweating
- Sleep issues
- Hair loss
- Changes in hair quality
- Bulging of the eyes, seen in Graves’ disease
- Mood swings
- Goiter, a condition in which the thyroid gland gets enlarged. This may cause the neck to look swollen.
The symptoms of hyperthyroidism may vary based on the age of a person. It is noticed that older people with this condition start losing their appetite and feel disconnected from society.