Hyperthyroidism

It is a disease that occurs when the body's metabolism accelerates as a result of excessive hormone production by the thyroid gland. This condition manifests itself with various symptoms. It usually occurs due to autoimmune causes such as Graves' disease. Treatment options include various interventions. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital in controlling hyperthyroidism.

Causes of Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces more hormones than normal. These hormones regulate the body's metabolic rate. Therefore, hyperthyroidism causes various symptoms due to fast metabolism. Hyperthyroidism can have many causes, and each can trigger this condition in different ways.

Graves' disease is one of the most common causes of hyperthyroidism. In this autoimmune disease, the body's immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing it to produce excess hormones. This condition usually affects the tissues behind the eyes, causing a variety of symptoms.

Thyroid Nodules are benign tumors that form in the thyroid gland, and some nodules may begin to produce hormones independently. Depending on the number of these nodules, part or all of the thyroid gland may produce excess hormones.

Toxic Multinodular Goiter is another cause where there are multiple thyroid nodules and these nodules produce excess hormones. This condition is usually seen in older individuals and can lead to enlargement of the thyroid gland.

Thyroid Inflammation (Thyroditis) can also cause hyperthyroidism. In this inflammatory condition, the thyroid gland temporarily secretes too much hormone. Thyroiditis usually occurs in the postpartum period, due to infection, immune system diseases or the postpartum period.

Excessive Iodine Consumption can overwork the thyroid gland due to the excess of iodine required for the production of thyroid hormones. Medications or nutritional supplements containing iodine can trigger hyperthyroidism.

These reasons are the main factors of hyperthyroidism. However, sometimes factors such as genetic predisposition or stress can also trigger this condition. The treatment process is shaped according to the underlying cause.

Hyperthyroidism Symptoms

Hyperthyroidism develops when the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormone. This speeds up the body's metabolism, causing many symptoms. Hyperthyroidism symptoms can vary from person to person. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the progression of the disease.

One of the most common symptoms is a rapid and irregular heartbeat (tachycardia). Overproduction of thyroid hormones causes the heart to speed up, which can sometimes be felt as heart palpitations. Psychological symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and excessive tension are also common. The person may feel constantly restless and tense.

Excessive sweating and hot flashes are also typical symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Since the body's metabolism is accelerated, the person becomes hotter and sweats more than normal. In addition, excessive weight loss is a noticeable symptom. People with hyperthyroidism can lose weight rapidly despite their increased appetite. The body burns food faster than normal due to excess thyroid hormone.

Physical symptoms of hyperthyroidism include hand tremors, muscle weakness, and feeling tired. A person may feel more tired than usual in their daily activities. A common symptom is protrusion of the eyes (exophthalmos).

Changes in bowel habits may also be observed; frequent diarrhea or increased bowel movements may occur. In addition, menstrual irregularities may occur in women. Hyperthyroidism can also affect the reproductive system, causing disorders in the menstrual cycle.

In conclusion, hyperthyroidism has a wide range of symptoms affecting many systems. Most of the symptoms are related to the acceleration of metabolism. If left untreated, it can cause serious health problems.

Hyperthyroidism Treatment Methods

Hyperthyroidism is a disease that occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. Treatment is determined by the patient's age, general health status, and the cause and severity of hyperthyroidism. Treatment methods are divided into three main categories: drug therapy, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgical intervention.

Drug therapy is one of the most common treatments for hyperthyroidism. Drugs prevent the thyroid gland from producing excess hormones. This aims to control hormone levels. Drug therapy is usually long-term and must be used regularly until thyroid hormone levels return to normal.

Radioactive Iodine Therapy is one of the most effective treatment methods for hyperthyroidism. In this method, the patient is given a low dose of radioactive iodine. Radioactive iodine goes to the thyroid gland, destroys the hormone-producing cells there, and stops the gland from working excessively.

Surgical Treatment is the surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland. It is a preferred treatment method especially for patients with large thyroid nodules or goiter. Surgical intervention is also performed in patients who do not respond to drug or radioactive iodine treatment.

In addition to treatment methods, changes in the patient's lifestyle also positively affect the treatment process. Doctor check-ups, healthy nutrition and stress management play a role in the management of the disease.