Hyperthyroidism, also known as overactive thyroid, is a disorder in which the thyroid gland produces and releases too much thyroid hormone. The thyroid regulates the body's metabolic rate, which includes the ability to lose or gain weight. Individuals with hyperthyroidism may experience sudden weight loss. Individuals may also experience irregular heartbeats, anxiety, fatigue, sleeplessness or nervousness with this condition. If these symptoms are present and hyperthyroidism is suspected, a visit to a doctor is recommended. Overactive thyroid affects more women than men and risks increase with age. There are a number of causes of hyperthyroidism.
Grave's Disease
Grave's disease is the most common cause of an overactive thyroid and is more common in women. Because Grave's disease is an autoimmune disorder, the antibodies from the immune system fuel the thyroid and make an overabundance of the hormone thyroxine. This is the phenomena that causes the overactive thyroid. People with Grave's disease also have thick skin in the lower legs and have inflammation behind the eyes.
Thyroid Nodules
Thyroid nodules, or toxic nodular goiter, are classified as abnormal growths of the thyroid cells that lump within the thyroid. A vast majority of the thyroid nodules are non-cancerous, but a small portion can be malignant. A thyroid nodule is a common endocrine problem. If the nodule produces the too much of the thyroid hormone, it is considered an autonomous nodule that leads to hyperthyroidism.
Thyroiditis
Thyroiditis is inflammation (swelling) of the thyroid gland. This condition results in an unrestrained release of thyroid hormone from the gland. The inflammation is not painful, and most patients are unaware that the thyroid is being affected.
Some women develop thyroiditis after pregnancy. This is referred to as postpartum thyroiditis. Postpartum thyroiditis requires no long-term treatment and usually resolves naturally after pregnancy.
Excess Iodine
Iodine is essential for the thyroid gland to function, produce thyroid hormones and regulate the body. Iodine is found in many foods, vitamins and supplements. The more iodine consumed from these products, the more thyroid hormone the gland will produce. This is known as an iodine-induced overactive thyroid.
