In the tradition Greek-derived names the prefix “hyper” has a meaning of “over” therefore the condition of hyperthyroidism can be roughly translated as overactive thyroid gland that produces excess of thyroid hormones.
The condition can be evoked by a number of causes. The most frequent among them are Graves’ disease, functioning adenoma, abnormal secretion of TSH, excessive iodine intake, excessive intake of thyroid hormones, thyroiditis, and toxic multinodular goiter.
Hyperthyroidism can show no signs and symptoms if the condition is relatively mild; though the illness can be recognized according to some definite sings. It has also been noticed that in senior patients (older than 70) symptoms can be absent too. Their appearance in general is connected with an increase in the metabolic rate in the organism. The most common symptoms of hyperthyroidism are: intolerance to heat, excessive sweating, changes in heart rate to more rapid, problems with concentration, exhaustion, tremor, nervousness and agitation, loss of weight, irregular and scant menstrual flow, and increased intestinal discharge.
Cases of irregular heart rhythms and heart failure are also known in some people. Moreover, more complicated and severe hyperthyroidism can evoke a condition called “thyroid storm”. It is accompanied by hypertension, fever, and heart failure; in rare cases mental changes (i.e. delirium) are possible.
The condition is treated by different methods. First of all, it is important to relieve the symptoms and allow a person to feel better. One of the main issues is to ease a rapid heart rate. Beta-blockers are a good help for the relief of this condition. They change the way thyroid hormone reacts to increased metabolism; although they are not a cure for the condition itself. It is important to get professional medical consultation and not treat yourself the way you think is right. The treatment is usually selected in accordance with the size of the thyroid gland, the patient’s age, as well as the state of general health and existing contraindications.
The condition can be attended by the administration of medications. The most frequently prescribed in the U.S. are methimazole (Tapazole) and propylthiouracil ( PTU). These remedies work by interfering with the hormone production. They rarely have an adverse effect of agranulocytosis. Long-term treatment is characteristic for the people who suffer from Graves’ disease because of the possibility of its remission if deprived of such treatment.
Hyperthyroidism is also cured by radioactive iodine. It is available in tablets or in liquid form and is commonly given singularly in the purposes of hyperactive gland ablation. This is a different type of iodine than the one used in a scan; it has been successfully practices for more than 50 years with the only contraindications for pregnant and nursing women.
Hyperactive thyroid gland, eventually, can be attended surgically. In earlier years its partial removal was a common practice. The main purpose of the operation is to take away the tissue producing too much of hormone. And though the operation is not considered dangerous it is nevertheless fraught with some adverse effects. There is a risk that hypothyroidism, or an inadequate production of thyroid hormone can start; and this will require thyroid replacement therapy. Though, after the appearance of radioactive iodine therapy and antithyroid drugs surgery is practiced not that often and mostly in the cases of pregnant women and children with allergic reaction to antithyroid remedies and also in cases when the size of the thyroid gland is too big and can be attended only surgically.