The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck. The thyroid gland produces two thyroid hormones called thyroxine, or T4, and triiodothyronine, or T3. These hormones control the process of metabolism, which controls the way every cell in the body uses energy. Some people have an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism, characterized by the production of too much thyroid hormone.
Thyroid Hormone Function
The thyroid hormones control all aspects of metabolism. They stimulate the metabolism of fat and carbohydrates, and lead to increased breakdown of glucose and glycogen in the body. In addition, excess amounts of thyroid hormones increase your basal metabolic rate, the rate at which the body uses energy when it's at rest. An increased basal metabolic rate burns more calories and will lead to increases in weight loss. As the level of thyroid hormones in the body increases, the basal metabolic rate will also increase significantly. Depending on the amount of excess thyroid hormone, weight loss can be severe.
Causes of Hyperthyroidism
The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is an autoimmune condition called Graves' disease, in which antibodies in the body attack the thyroid gland and cause it to produce excess hormones. Other causes include inflammation of the thyroid gland, thyroid nodules and excess iodine consumption. Those taking synthetic thyroid hormones as a treatment for underactive thyroid may also experience hyperthyroidism. The National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service notes that in rare cases a benign tumor on the pituitary gland may be the cause of excess thyroid hormone production.
Symptoms
Weight loss is one of the most common symptoms of hyperthyroidism, but those with the condition experience other physical symptoms as well. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, increased appetite, nervousness, anxiety, increases in sweating, increased heat sensitivity and fatigue, according to MayoClinic.com.
Treatment
Treatment for hyperthyroidism usually consists of a variety of medications. Radioactive iodine works by destroying the overactive cells in the thyroid and stopping the production of thyroid hormones. Beta-blockers do not affect thyroid levels, but can control cardiovascular symptoms associated with the condition. For those who cannot take medication, surgery to remove the thyroid gland, called thyroidectomy, may be the best option.
Considerations
According to MayoClinic.com, weight loss associated with an overactive thyroid is sudden and usually severe. Weight loss occurs with a normal intake of food and even when food consumption is increased.
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