Hyperthyroidism

Introduction
In 2002, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism - a surprisingly common problem amongst females, which I think does not get enough attention. If left untreated, hyperthyroidism can cause blindness and also be life-threatening, so I would like to take this opportunity to ‘publicize’ it so to speak.

What is Hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland (located on your neck) produces too much thyroid hormones, in turn causing the speed of your body’s system and metabolism to increase rapidly.

What is Graves’ Disease?
About 70-80% of the patients that are diagnosed with hyperthyroidism are said to have their hyperthyroidism caused by Graves’ Disease. It is a disease that doesn’t get much attention and as such not much is known about it. Graves Disease is most often characterized with hyperthyroidism, protruding eyes, eye complications, enlarged thyroid gland and moist skin. There are no known cures for it. Treatments include surgery to remove the thyroid or parts of it, radioactive iodine and anti-thyroid drugs. Currently, there are three anti-thyroid drugs available depending on your location: PTU, Methimazole and Carbimazole. Many patients and Eastern doctors have ascribed the trigger of Grave’s Disease to stress. As such, some doctors may prescribe vitamins that lessen stress on your body.

Common Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism/Graves’ Disease
If you think you have a few of the symptoms below, PLEASE SEE AN ENDOCRINOLOGIST. If thyroid problems are left untreated, a thyroid storm may occur at which point it will become FATAL.

• Palpitations
• Rapid heart rate: 100 beats per minute or higher
• Irregular heart beat
• Raised blood pressure
• Tremor (i.e. shakiness; stretch your hand out and see if your fingers are shaking)
• Heat intolerance
• Increased appetite
• Weight loss (not good loss; you are losing muscle instead of fat)
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle weakness
• Diminished/Changed sex drive
• Insomnia
• Feeling restless
• Mental impairment, memory lapses, diminished attention span
• Decreased concentration
• Irritability
• Emotional liability
• Brittle nails
• Enlarged thyroid gland
• Irregular menstrual flow
• Difficulty conceiving
• Hair loss
• Increased bowel movements or diarrhea