Hyperthyroidism is a condition resulting from over-activity of the thyroid gland. Symptoms include sweating, nervousness, fatigue, insomnia, sensitivity to heat, increased hunger, weight loss, diarrhea, shaky hands, and bulging eyes. Treatment may consist of beta-blockers to control symptoms while the problem is being worked up. Definitive treatment may be surgery or medication. Surgery may be done to remove an overactive nodule or part of the gland.
Pharmacological treatment consists of radioactive iodine.
Complications of hyperthyroidism include exophthalmoses and thyroid storm. Thyroid storm is a serious and rare complication requiring hospitalization, as it is a severe worsening of symptoms including fever and rapid heart beat. Thyroid disease can come on slowly with symptoms that go unrecognized for a period of time or it can come on quite suddenly. If you have any symptoms that you think may be caused by your thyroid or you have any questions about what you have read here, contact your physician.