In hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), the thyroid gland produces too many hormones. Because thyroid hormones affect our metabolism, symptoms such as sleep disturbances, nervousness, increased sweating, or weight loss occur as a result. In most cases, the cause of the symptoms is either autonomy of the thyroid gland or the autoimmune disease Graves’ disease. If hyperthyroidism is treated properly, a normal life is usually possible for those affected.
Function of the thyroid gland
The thyroid gland produces the hormones triiodothyronine and thyroxine, which are vital for us humans. They influence many important processes in the body, for example, the circulation, metabolism and growth, but also our psychological well-being. The release of thyroid hormones into the blood is regulated by a hormone produced in the pituitary gland (TSH). If the thyroid gland produces too few hormones, this is called hypothyroidism. If the opposite is true and too many hormones are produced, this is called hyperthyroidism.
Causes of hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism can be due to a number of causes. In about 95 percent of cases, the symptoms typical of hyperthyroidism are caused by Graves’ disease or autonomic thyroid disease. In addition, however, there are other, rare causes that can be behind hyperthyroidism. These include:
- An inflammation of the thyroid gland
- Hormone-producing tumors
- A too high dose of thyroid hormone therapy
Graves’ disease as a cause
Graves’ disease – also known as Graves’ disease – is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system produces antibodies against the thyroid gland. These dock onto certain surface cells of the thyroid gland and take the place of the pituitary hormone TSH, which normally regulates the production of thyroid hormones. Although the antibodies also stimulate the hormone-producing cells of the thyroid gland, the latter now produces hormones independently of the actual need. The result is hyperthyroidism.
Thyroid autonomy as a cause
When the thyroid gland is autonomous, it produces hormones independently and is no longer controlled by the pituitary gland. Such autonomy can affect either the entire thyroid gland or only individual areas called autonomous adenomas. Often, thyroid autonomy is caused by iodine deficiency. If there is too little iodine in the body, the thyroid gland tries to compensate for the deficiency by growing: An enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter) and nodular changes in the tissue occur.
Typical symptoms of hyperthyroidism
One of the typical symptoms that may occur as part of hyperthyroidism is an enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter). An enlarged thyroid gland is noticeable, among other things, by symptoms such as hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and problems buttoning the collar. Such a goiter occurs in about 70 to 90 percent of all people affected. Due to the increased production of thyroxine and triiodothyronine, the metabolism is accelerated. Other typical signs of hyperthyroidism are therefore:
- Nervousness
- Increased sweating
- Restlessness
- Sleep disturbances
- Accelerated pulse
- High blood pressure
- Tremor
- Lack of concentration
There is also often weight loss despite an increased appetite. In addition, symptoms such as diarrhea, hair loss and muscle pain and weakness may also occur.
Typical symptoms of Baseow’s disease
In Graves’ disease, in addition to the symptoms already mentioned, there may also be a doughy swelling of the skin on the lower legs – a so-called myxedema. In addition, however, the disease is most noticeable in the eyes: Symptoms such as a foreign body sensation, sensitivity to light, increased lacrimation and an unpleasant feeling of pressure appear. Frequently, the eyes also protrude forward, causing the gaze to appear fixed and gawking.
Thyrotoxic crisis as a complication
In rare cases, thyrotoxic crisis can occur as a complication of hyperthyroidism.Such a crisis is initially noticeable by high fever, an elevated pulse, diarrhea and vomiting, as well as restlessness and anxiety. Later, impaired consciousness may occur – in the worst case, the patient may lose consciousness (thyrotoxic coma). Because a thyrotoxic crisis is a life-threatening condition, a physician should be notified immediately. A thyrotoxic crisis is often triggered by the administration of iodine-containing drugs or X-ray contrast media. In addition, other possible causes include infection, surgery, stressful situations, pregnancy, and discontinuation of thyroid medications.
