Hyperthyroidism: diagnosis and treatment

The thyroid gland releases its hormones T4 and T3 in the body, but when it releases too much hormone, it causes a condition called hyperthyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism causes many symptomslike weight loss, fast heartbeat, hand tremors, muscle weakness, anxiety, irritability, and more.

Also, there are many causes for hyperthyroidism, which you can find out about here, In this article, we will learn how to diagnose hyperthyroidism and how to treat it.

How to diagnose hyperthyroidism

If you suspect hyperthyroidism or notice symptoms suggesting it, you should see an endocrinologist. They are the specialist who will do the right diagnosis.

To diagnose hyperthyroidism, the doctor will gather your personal and family medical history and do a physical exam. Diagnosis usually depends on symptoms, signs, and lab tests.

Diagnostic tests for hyperthyroidism include:

1. T4, Free T4, and T3 tests:- These tests measure the amount of thyroid hormones in your blood.

2. TSH test or thyroid stimulating hormone testTSH is a hormone released by the pituitary gland that tells the thyroid to make hormones. When thyroid hormones are high in your blood, the pituitary lowers TSH. So, an abnormally low TSH can be an early sign of hyperthyroidism.

3.  Thyroid scan or radioactive iodine uptake scanThis test helps the doctor see if the thyroid is overactive by measuring how much iodine it absorbs from the blood. The doctor gives a small pill or liquid with iodine, then you lie down while a special camera takes pictures of the thyroid. The scan can show if the whole thyroid or just one part is causing the problem.

4. Thyroid ultrasoundUltrasound can check the size of the whole thyroid and look for any lumps inside it, like nodules. It can also show if these lumps are solid or filled with fluid.

5.  CT scan or MRICT or MRI can show if there is a tumor in the thyroid.

Ways to treat hyperthyroidism

There are several options to treat hyperthyroidism, which your doctor will suggest based on your case. Which include:-

• Medications

There are some drugs that act as thyroid blockers, stopping the thyroid from making hormones. The most common ones are Thionamides.

Thionamides have been used for decades to treat hyperthyroidism. They're generally safe for kids and adults, including pregnant women. But they can cause side effects like joint pain, hair loss, rash, and rarely liver damage.

Make sure to tell your doctor if you're pregnant or planning to be, and if you take any other meds. Always take the medicine exactly as the doctor says.

• Radioactive iodine

Radioactive iodine (RAI) effectively destroys the cells making thyroid hormones without harming other body tissues. It's usually taken by mouth as pills or liquid.

Most people who get radioactive iodine treatment for hyperthyroidism develop the opposite condition, which is HypothyroidismBut the treatment for this is easier by taking a thyroid supplement daily.

In rare cases, continuous high doses of radioactive iodine are linked to a higher risk of some cancers, but not with low doses used to treat hyperthyroidism.

Some side effects can happen with radioactive iodine treatment like neck pain, nausea, and dry throat. High doses may also affect fertility.

• Surgery

Thyroid removal surgery can be done, where part or all of the thyroid is taken out. It’s recommended for some with hyperthyroidism who don’t respond to other treatments.

If the whole thyroid is removed, the person will need to take thyroid supplements for life.

Like all surgeries, thyroid removal has risks and complications.

Risk factors for hyperthyroidism

The main risk factors for hyperthyroidism are:

• GenderFemales are more likely to get hyperthyroidism than males. Experts think it's related to hormones.

• PregnancyPregnancy can trigger thyroid overactivity in some women, which may cause complications for both mother and baby.

• AgeAdults, especially those over 60, are more at risk of hyperthyroidism.

• Heredity- Family history of hyperthyroidism usually means you have a higher chance of getting it.

• Exposure to iodine- You might get iodine abnormally through some meds or foods, which ups the risk of hyperthyroidism.

• Havinga health condition- People with certain health issues like type 1 diabetes, primary adrenal insufficiency, or pernicious anemia are more likely to get hyperthyroidism.

In the end, lifestyle factors are important to lower the risk of hyperthyroidism. This can mean eating a healthy balanced diet, taking supplements if needed, getting enough exercise each week, and quitting bad habits like smoking.

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