Hyperthyroidism

The thyroid gland, which is located in the anterior part of the neck and is shaped like a butterfly, produces thyroid hormones, which regulate the metabolism of the entire human body. They therefore influence, for example, our temperature and heart rate. The main causes of hyperthyroidism are: Graves’ disease (when an antibody against the body’s own thyroids is produced), a toxic multinodular goiter (makes too much thyroid hormone), and thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid of unknown origin).

Description

The symptoms

The most common symptoms are altered heart rate, feverish temperature, nervousness and sweating, dry skin and unexplained weight loss.

Who is affected by the condition?

It can affect people of all ages, but particularly women from adolescence to menopause.

Diagnosis

Hyperthyroidism is detected by finding thyroid hormones in the blood, as well as the pituitary hormones tasked with regulation of thyroid hormones.

Typical treatment

Treatment is aimed at reducing the action of excess thyroid hormones. Drugs are used that antagonise the hormones, usually orally. Drugs are also prescribed to slow heart rate. In some cases, radioactive iodine is administered to partially deactivate the hormone-producing thyroid cells in a controlled manner.

Typical tests

The most common test is a blood test. Other additional tests include thyroid scintigraphy and thyroid ultrasound.

Prevención

In order for the thyroid gland to function normally, moderate consumption of iodised salt is recommended, as iodine is an essential component of thyroid hormones.