What Is Hyperthyroidism?

Q: What Is Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) explained: causes (Graves' disease, toxic nodules), symptoms (rapid heart rate, weight loss, anxiety), and treatment.

Hyperthyroidism is when your thyroid produces too much hormone, speeding up metabolism.

Causes

Graves’ disease
Toxic multinodular goiter
Toxic adenoma
Thyroiditis
Excessive medication

Symptoms

Rapid heartbeat, palpitations
Weight loss
Heat intolerance, sweating
Anxiety, tremor, insomnia
Muscle weakness
Bulging eyes (Graves’)

Treatment

Antithyroid medications (methimazole)
Radioactive iodine
Surgery
Beta-blockers for symptoms

Source: American Thyroid Association, NLM MedlinePlus.

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