The thyroid gland is normal or small in size, and 131 I uptake is suppressed. Subacute thyroiditis and viral thyroiditis. Probably of viral origin and may present as a sore throat. Radiation thyroiditis, thyroid carcinoma, excessive TSH stimulation, excessive iodine intake, struma ovarii, and trophoblastic disease. Patients may present with nervousness, heat intolerance, palpitations, tachycardia, weight loss, weakness, dyspnea on exertion, emotional lability, poor concentration, itching and burning of eyes, fullness in the throat, diarrhea, and dysmenorrhea or amenorrhea.
Diarrhea is a bad sign and can herald the onset of thyroid storm.
Laboratory evaluation of hyperthyroidism. Best method for diagnosing hyperthyroidism. Free T 4 . Total T 4 . Therefore, elevated total T 4 is not sensitive or specific.