Hyperthyroidism (Graves’ Disease; Overactive Thyroid)
The thyroid gland is shaped like a butterfly, and is located in front of the neck. It produces hormones, that control metabolism. Hyperthyroidism occurs, when the thyroid gland becomes overactive and produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormone.
Hyperthyroidism can cause a variety of diseases and disorders:
Factors, which may increase the likelihood of hyperthyroidism, They include:
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism occur gradually, just after, as the thyroid becomes overactive.
Hyperthyroidism can cause the following symptoms:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination.
Tests for the detection of hyperthyroidism may include:
Treatment will depend on the cause, causing hyperthyroidism. If you are pregnant, this should definitely inform your doctor. Talk to your doctor about, which option will best treat hyperthyroidism for you.
Methods of treatment of hyperthyroidism include:
Antithyroid drugs are most effective in the treatment of Graves' disease. They will reduce the activity of the thyroid gland. Smoking may decrease the effectiveness of certain drugs. If you smoke, Talk to your doctor about, how to get rid of this bad habit.
All antithyroid drugs can cause rashes, fever, and arthralgia. Serious side effects include increased risk of infection, and liver damage.
If the disease goes into remission, the need for medication disappears.
This type of drug will help reduce the heart rate and nervousness.
Radioactive iodine is taken orally, whereupon it is absorbed by the thyroid gland. Once there, it damages the cells of the thyroid gland, and they can no longer produce thyroid hormones. Within days, the excess iodine leaves the body in the urine. This procedure reduces the activity of the thyroid gland. Sometimes the treatment of radioactive iodine can greatly reduce the levels of thyroid hormones. In this case, you will need to make up for their loss every day, taking replacement thyroid hormone.
For the treatment of hyperthyroidism surgery is rarely used. When it is carried out performing the removal of part or all of the thyroid gland. The procedure is done, If medication is ineffective.
After operation, perhaps, daily need to take additional drugs thyroid hormones.
If the disease affects the eyes, causing symptoms, such as dry, red eyes or double vision, your doctor may prescribe:
For further advice you may be referred to an ophthalmologist.
At the moment there are no methods to prevent hyperthyroidism.
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