Losing weight without trying may seem like a dream come true, but it can be a sign of serious health problems, including depression, cancer and AIDS. It's also a symptom of thyroid dysfunction. Thyroid disorders are not uncommon in the United States, but over half go undiagnosed, according to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. You could have a condition called hyperthyroidism if you are experiencing unintended weight loss.
Understanding Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism, also known as overactive thyroid, involves an overproduction of thyroid hormone. Graves' disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. Certain blood antibodies stimulate this excess hormone production and cause the the thyroid to grow. Other possible causes include lumps or growths on the gland, immune system dysfunction and viral infections. Overactive thyroid symptoms include rapid heart rate, sweating, nervousness, anxiety, sleep problems, muscle weakness, brittle hair and thinning skin. One or both of your eyes may appear to bulge if you have Graves' Disease. You may have a swollen neck due to a goiter.
Effect on Weight
Thyroid hormone is central to regulating your metabolism. Your basal metabolic rate is defined as how much oxygen your body uses during periods of rest. An overproduction of thyroid hormone increases your basal metabolic rate, which can lead to weight loss. In general, the more severe your hyperthyroidism is, the greater the amount of weight loss. Keep in mind, however, that having an overactive thyroid can also increase your appetite. If you increase your caloric intake, you might experience no weight loss or even gain weight, according to the American Thyroid Association.
Health Consequences
Ignoring signs of hyperthyroidism can have major implications for your health. In addition to causing heart rhythm problems, an untreated overactive thyroid can lead to congestive heart failure. Your heart would be unable to circulate an adequate amount of blood for your body as a result. Hyperthyroidism also affects how your bones absorb calcium, increasing your chances of developing osteoporosis. Skin and eye complications may occur if you have Graves' disease. These include skin redness, swelling of the skin, blurry vision and light sensitivity.
Treatment
Options vary in treating an overactive thyroid, and what works for one person might not be appropriate for you. Your doctor might prescribe anti-thyroid agents, drugs that reduce the gland's hormone production. Radioactive iodine is used to shrink the thyroid. Beta blockers, medications to treat high blood pressure, can be used to regulate your heart rate. In some cases, surgery may be required to treat your condition, although this is rare. A surgeon will remove most of the gland, and you'll have to take a thyroid supplement drug for the rest of your life. You will regain any weight that was lost as a result of your overactive thyroid once the condition is treated.
