Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is caused by an overactive thyroid gland which leads to an over production of thyroid hormone. Many diseases and conditions can cause this problem.

These include Graves disease, non cancerous growths of the thyroid gland or pituitary gland, tumors of the testes or ovaries, inflammation (irritation and swelling with presence of extra immune cells) of the thyroid due to viral infections or other causes, ingestion of excessive amounts of thyroid hormone, and ingestion of excessive iodine.

Graves disease accounts for about 85% of all cases of hyperthyroidism.

Graves disease is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system targets certain tissues and attacks them. This causes an over activity of the thyroid gland which is called hyperthyroidism.

Graves disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. The production of thyroid hormone is increased, causing a wide range of symptoms from anxiety and restlessness to insomnia and weight loss.

In addition, the eyeballs may begin to protrude (exophthalmos) causing irritation and tearing.

Graves disease is caused by inappropriate immune system activation that targets the thyroid gland and causes overproduction of thyroid hormones.

Graves disease is usually seen in women over 20 years of age, although the disorder may occur at any age and can also affect men.

Symptoms
Weakness	Increased appetite
Difficulty sleeping	Frequent bowel movements
Protruding eyes (exophthalmos)	Diarrhea
Weight loss	Nausea and vomiting
Palpitations (bounding heart beat)	Clammy skin
Heartbeat sensations	Skin blushing/flushing
Blood pressure - high	Itching
Nervousness	Hair loss
Restlessness	Hand tremors
Fatigue	Menstrual irregularities in women
Heat intolerance	Absent menstruation
Increased sweating	Breast development in men
Goiter (visibly enlarged thyroid)

Lisa Wells, RN

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