THYROTOXICOSIS

Overview and Facts

Thyrotoxicosis is a condition in which the body produces excessive thyroid hormone. This hormone is produced by the thyroid gland to assist your body in utilizing energy, staying warm, and keeping your organs functioning properly. 

Since the pituitary gland perceives that you have “sufficient” thyroid hormone, you might have a low amount of (TSH) thyroid-stimulating hormone in your circulation. As all of your body’s processes are ramping up, you might feel anxious or irritated if you are thyrotoxic.

Furthermore, the most frequent cause of thyrotoxicosis is hyperthyroidism, often known as an overactive thyroid, which happens when your thyroid gland releases too many thyroid hormones.

Types and Symptoms

SYMPTOMS

Thyrotoxicosis occurs when the body generates an excessive amount of hormones. Moreover, excessive amounts may have several negative consequences for your health, including:

  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Increases sweating 
  • Changes in appetite
  • Mood swings 
  • Shaky hands 
  • Weak muscles
  • Weight loss
  • Red, watery eyes

Contact your doctor at once to avoid issues when you notice any of those symptoms and signs.

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

In diagnosing thyrotoxicosis, your doctor will ask you regarding your symptoms and examine you to see whether your heartbeat is too fast or if your thyroid shows abnormalities. If your doctor suspects thyrotoxicosis is the cause of your symptoms, he or she may need to conduct tests to confirm the diagnosis, such as:

  • Blood tests. This test can help in measuring the quantity of TSH in your blood. 
  • Ultrasound. This test may aid your doctor in gaining a better picture of your thyroid gland.

TREATMENT

The severity of your thyrotoxicosis determines how you should be treated. Even so, the following are the most effective treatments:

Antithyroid medications. These drugs may help prevent thyroid glands from generating excess hormones and other hyperthyroidisms for Graves disease.

Radioactive iodine. Thyroid cells can be destroyed by radioactive iodine, which is commonly taken in the form of a capsule. Although this treatment may appear frightening, it has a lengthy history and is safe and effective. 

Beta-blockers. This can assist with symptoms such as rapid heartbeat and shaking hands.

In order to alleviate your pain, a thyroid specialist may suggest that your symptoms do not change after using these medications.

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