The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped organ located in the lower neck. It plays a crucial role in regulating the body's metabolism.
Hyperthyroidism or overactive thyroid is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much of the thyroid hormone called thyroxine.
The symptoms of an overactive thyroid are losing weight without trying, rapid heartbeat, fatigue, tremors, anxiety, and sweating. Sometimes, we find a swelling in the thyroid gland which we call Goiter, this can be confirmed by ultrasound.
Some of the causes of overactive thyroid are Graves' disease, which is an autoimmune disorder. The most important landmark in this condition is the bulging eyes. Another cause for overactive thyroid is thyroiditis, which is inflammation of the thyroid gland and can cause some pain in the thyroid gland.
The diagnosis is simple by examining the lower neck to check for enlargement and doing blood test and ultrasound.
The aim for the treatment is to reduce the amount of hormone produced by the thyroid gland. We can use medications to suppress the production of thyroid hormone or use Radioactive iodine to destroy the thyroid gland. Another option is doing surgery to remove the thyroid gland. The only complication of the last 2 options are they will lead to hypothyroidism or under active thyroid and the need to thyroid hormone medication the whole life.
It's important to see your doctor if you suspect having overactive thyroid, as untreated hyperthyroidism can lead to serious health problems such as osteoporosis, also heart and eye problems.
Video shot by Galia Helbaoui and edited by Amer Helbaoui
8 май 2024
