Hyperthyroidism

What is hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces excess thyroid hormone, accelerating every metabolic process in the body. The most common cause is Graves' disease — an autoimmune condition where antibodies stimulate the thyroid to overproduce hormone. Other causes include toxic multinodular goitre and thyroid nodules that produce hormone autonomously.

Left untreated, hyperthyroidism can lead to serious complications including atrial fibrillation, osteoporosis, and in severe cases, thyroid storm — a life-threatening medical emergency.

Symptoms

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
• Unexplained weight loss despite increased appetite
• Anxiety, nervousness, and irritability
• Heat intolerance and excessive sweating
• Tremor — particularly in the hands
• Fatigue and muscle weakness
• Frequent bowel movements or diarrhoea
• Difficulty sleeping
• Enlarged thyroid gland (goitre) — visible swelling in the neck
• In Graves' disease: protruding eyes (exophthalmos)

Causes

• Graves' disease — the most common cause, an autoimmune condition more prevalent in women aged 20–50
• Toxic multinodular goitre — multiple thyroid nodules producing excess hormone
• Toxic adenoma — a single nodule producing excess hormone
• Thyroiditis — inflammation causing temporary release of stored hormone
• Excessive iodine intake — from supplements, medications, or contrast dye

When to see a doctor

See a doctor promptly if you have unexplained weight loss, a racing heart, tremor, or heat intolerance. Hyperthyroidism requires blood tests to confirm the diagnosis and identify the cause before treatment can begin.

Treatment options

• Antithyroid medication (carbimazole, propylthiouracil) — reduces thyroid hormone production; often used as first-line treatment
• Beta-blockers — provide rapid relief of symptoms such as palpitations and tremor while awaiting definitive treatment
• Radioiodine therapy — a single dose of radioactive iodine that permanently reduces thyroid activity
• Thyroid surgery (thyroidectomy) — removal of part or all of the thyroid gland; recommended for large goitres or where other treatments are unsuitable

How eMedClinic can help

Our endocrinologists arrange thyroid function tests, confirm diagnosis, prescribe antithyroid medication, and provide ongoing monitoring. We also support patients who have moved abroad and need to continue their hyperthyroidism management without interruption.