hyperthyroidism

A condition in which the thyroid gland overproduces thyroid hormones resulting in many negative symptoms, including loss of weight and heart palpatations.

Due to the stress it places on the heart, it is often treated with radioactive iodine, destroying the thyroid gland. This gives the patient hypothyroidism, which is much less dangerous.

see also: thyroiditis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease

Also known as thyrotoxicosis. Characterised by an elevated level of serum free thyroid hormone.

It can be caused by increased synthesis of thyroid hormone (whether originating from the pituitary issuing too much thyroid stimulating hormone or the thyroid itself or from weird things such as choriocarcinomas), excessive release of thyroid hormone (as in destruction of thyroid tissue in thyroiditis) or the conscious or accidental ingestion of excess thyroid hormone (thyrotoxicosis factitia).

The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves' disease.

The common symptoms of hyperthyroidism include: goiter, tremor, nervousness, increased sweating, hypersensitivity to heat, palpitations, fatigue, increased appetite, weight loss, insomnia, weakness and frequent bowel motions (possibly even diarrhea).

All probable cases of hyperthyroidism should be brought to the attention of a competent doctor.