Hyperthyroidism Symptoms

Hyperthyroidism: Introduction

When your thyroid becomes overactive, it produces and releases increased amounts of hormones into your body, it is called hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland turns overactive and metabolic processes of your body also speed up which cause many health problems.

Shaped like a butterfly, the thyroid gland lies in the front portion of your throat. It helps in performing metabolic process inside your body and maintains among other function, your heart rate and body temperature. Hyperthyroidism negatively affects these functions.

What are the Hyperthyroidism Symptoms?

Many with this disease may have no symptoms and remain asymptomatic. Increased levels of thyroid hormone can cause symptoms and signs of hyperthyroidism which may present themselves in several ways.

Graves disease, thyroid nodules, thyroiditis, increased intake of iodine or artificial thyroid hormone are some of the causes of hyperthyroidism.

Generally, hyperthyroidism signs and symptoms develop gradually and patients fail to realize these health changes unless they get more severe. Symptoms may carry on for weeks or months before the patient fully understands that he or she is ill.

Early signs and symptoms for hyperthyroidism:

• Profuse sweating
• Shortness of breath
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Rapid heart beats
• Increased appetite with weight loss
• Skin problems
• Tremors
• Muscle weakness
• Menstrual changes
• Double vision
• Heat intolerance
• Goiter (swollen thyroid gland)
• Protruding eyes that appear red and swollen (Graves disease)

Hyperthyroidism symptoms may differ among those affected. It is not necessary that a person will experience all of the warning signs stated above.

Do not assess yourself solely on the signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism listed above, as these can occur in other medical conditions too.

To get a clear understanding of the disease and remove any doubts or concerns you may have, take a visit to your doctor to satisfy your queries.