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Hyperthyroidism is a hyperfunction of the thyroid gland. It usually causes a state of nervousness and agitation, frequent stools and a rapid heartbeat. In hyperthyroidism, the activity of the thyroid gland increased 60% to 100% or more.

The disease usually starts in people aged 20 to 40 years. However, it can occur at any age, and we see both in children than in older people. It is less common than hypothyroidism.

The thyroid gland is shaped like a butterfly. It is located at the base of the neck below the Adam’s apple. The influence of thyroid gland in the body is greater: his role is to regulate the metabolism of cells in our body. It therefore determines the speed of the “engine” of our cells and organs and the pace will be used lipids, proteins and carbohydrates. In people with hyperthyroidism, this engine runs faster.

Causes

The main causes

• Graves ‘disease or Graves’ disease (70% to 85% of cases). It is an autoimmune disease in which antibodies stimulate excessive thyroid to produce more hormones. The disease often attacks the tissues behind the eye or, more rarely, skin, feet and calves. This disease affects approximately 1.2% of the population in the United Unis7.
• One or toxic thyroid nodules. The nodules are small masses formed in the thyroid gland, alone or in groups (see our handout thyroid nodule). Not all nodules that produce hormones, but those who do (called “toxic”) can cause a state of hyperthyroidism.
• Thyroiditis. If inflammation affects the thyroid, it can also cause an excess of thyroid hormones in the blood. Often, we do not know the cause of inflammation. It may be of infectious nature or occur after pregnancy. Usually, thyroiditis causing hyperthyroidism of short duration, because the thyroid regains its normal operation after a few months without intervention. Medications can help relieve symptoms until the illness passes.

Other causes

• Some medications, such as those that are rich in iodine (eg, amiodarone, used for heart problems).
• A disorder of the pituitary. The regulatory mechanism of the thyroid gland by the pituitary gland may be disturbed (eg, a tumor in the pituitary gland), causing excessive production of thyroid hormones. This happens very rarely.

Possible Complications

Hyperthyroidism causes increased metabolism and thus a greater expenditure of energy. In the long term, untreated hyperthyroidism can lead to thyroid storm. All signs of hyperthyroidism are then combined and expressed their peak, which can cause serious complications such as atrial fibrillation and heart failure. The person is confused and agitated. This situation requires urgent medical attention.

Moreover, untreated hyperthyroidism increases in the long term, the risk of osteoporosis, because calcium absorption by the bone is affected.

Diagnosis

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism may be subtle, particularly among older people. Only a blood test showing both lower levels of the hormone TSH and elevated thyroid hormone levels (T4 and / or T3) will confirm the diagnosis. The symptoms listed below should prompt a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis.

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