It is a disease that occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone and speeds up the body's metabolism. It is also known as toxic goiter. It can develop due to reasons such as Graves' disease, toxic nodular goiter and thyroiditis. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, weight loss, irritability, sweating and tremors. Diagnosis is made with blood tests and thyroid ultrasound, while treatment can be done with various methods. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications.
Causes of Hyperthyroidism (Toxic Goiter)
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormone. This leads to various metabolic disorders in the body. The most common cause of this condition is Graves' disease.
Graves' disease is a type of autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the body's own tissues, causing the thyroid gland to become overactive.
Another common cause is nodular goiter. Nodules (lumps) that develop in the thyroid gland can cause irregularities in thyroid hormone production. Some of these nodules can function autonomously and produce excess hormones, causing hyperthyroidism. This condition is called toxic nodular goiter.
Thyroiditis is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland becomes inflamed. This can lead to hyperthyroidism. Inflammation in the thyroid gland causes the gland to produce excess hormones for a short time. This condition is temporary, but can cause uncomfortable symptoms.
In addition, high doses of iodine can cause the thyroid gland to overactive. Iodine is a key ingredient in the production of thyroid hormones. Therefore, excessive iodine consumption can cause the thyroid gland to produce excess hormones. In particular, certain medications or contrast agents containing iodine can trigger this condition.
Finally, thyroid tumors, although rare, can cause hyperthyroidism. Both benign and malignant tumors can cause the thyroid gland to become overactive.
The causes of Hyperthyroidism (Toxic Goiter) may vary from person to person. It may present with different symptoms in each individual. Therefore, it is important to consult a specialist for correct diagnosis and treatment.
Hyperthyroidism (Toxic Goiter) Symptoms
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. It also causes an increase in metabolism. This hormonal imbalance causes a series of symptoms in the body. These symptoms are usually related to the body becoming overstimulated.
One of the most common symptoms is weight loss. People with hyperthyroidism may lose weight rapidly despite eating a normal diet. This is because thyroid hormones speed up metabolism, increasing the body's use of energy.
Another important symptom of an overactive thyroid gland is a rapid heartbeat and palpitations. The heart has to work harder due to the increased metabolic rate. This can lead to tachycardia (fast heartbeat) or irregular heartbeats.
Emotional symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and impatience are also common in hyperthyroidism. Hormones affect the functioning of the brain. For this reason, patients may feel constantly tense, restless, or irritable.
Another common symptom of hyperthyroidism (toxic goiter) is excessive sweating and hot flushes. Patients may sweat more than normal because increased metabolism raises body temperature. They may also feel constantly hot. This can be uncomfortable, especially in hot environments.
Tremor (shaking of the hands) is also frequently observed. Overstimulation of the body can cause tremors in the hands and sometimes in other parts of the body.
Hyperthyroidism can also cause insomnia, muscle weakness, and fatigue. Because the body is constantly working at a high pace, energy stores are quickly depleted, which can leave a person feeling extremely tired.
Finally, eye problems may occur, which are characteristic symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Swelling, redness, or protrusion of the eyes (exophthalmos) may be symptoms of this disease.
Symptoms may vary in severity for each individual, so it is important to consult a doctor for a definitive diagnosis.
Hyperthyroidism (Toxic Goiter) Treatment
Hyperthyroidism (Toxic Goiter) treatment varies depending on the cause of the disease, its severity and the patient's health. Its aim is to control hormone production and relieve symptoms. Treatment options are divided into three main categories: drug therapy, radioactive iodine therapy and surgical intervention.
Drug therapy is used to suppress the hormone production of the thyroid gland. With this method, thyroid hormone levels are regularly monitored and the symptoms of the disease are tried to be controlled. The treatment process can vary from a few months to a few years. Drug therapy is effective in relieving symptoms. However, it does not guarantee complete recovery from the disease and may require long-term use.
Radioactive iodine therapy is used to shrink the thyroid gland and permanently reduce its hormone production. Radioactive iodine taken orally is absorbed by the thyroid gland and destroys the overactive tissue. This treatment is usually successful. However, it can sometimes cause a decrease in thyroid hormone production, causing hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).
Surgical intervention is preferred in cases that do not respond to other treatment methods or in the presence of a large goiter. In this method, part or all of the thyroid gland is removed. Hormone replacement therapy may be required to regulate hormone levels after surgery.
The correct method for treating Hyperthyroidism (Toxic Goiter) is determined by the patient. It is managed with regular doctor follow-up. With treatment, it is possible to control the symptoms to a large extent.
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