Hyperthyroidism of the thyroid gland, also called hyperfunction, is characterized by the secretion of thyroid hormones in excess for the body . The disease can be completely asymptomatic, as well as with many characteristic signs. It all depends on the amount of excess hormones. If the excess is small, then the clinical pathological process does not develop. In general, this syndrome is more characteristic of women.
Thyroid Hyperthyroidism: Causes
The occurrence of hyperfunction is associated with age-related changes, a genetic predisposition and the amount of iodine in the body. Most often, the conditions for hyperthyroidism become: severe psychological trauma, hormonal disruptions during menopause, disturbances in sexual life, pituitary adenoma, infectious diseases, iodine intake in large quantities, pregnancy.
Thyroid hyperthyroidism: the main symptoms
A characteristic sign of the development of the syndrome is considered excessive nervousness. A person constantly feels some kind of anxiety, becomes irritable, can cry at the slightest occasion. Some can not concentrate on any business, at night they suffer from insomnia. Sometimes the patient comes into a state of unnatural arousal and exhibits excessive activity. In other cases, depression occurs, and even symptoms that occur with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia can occur. Hyperthyroidism also affects metabolism. This is manifested in more frequent than usual bowel movements, often accompanied by diarrhea. The appetite of a person increases, but at the same time he begins to lose weight. At the same time, muscles are weakened, which leads to rapid fatigue and the inability to withstand large physical exertion. In addition, the cardiovascular system suffers, which manifests itself in a rapid heartbeat. It becomes difficult for the patient to endure the heat, he sweats a lot. The skin turns pink, becomes smooth and warm. Hair can break and fall out, nails also become brittle, and sometimes even move away from the fingers. Hyperthyroidism of the thyroid gland also affects the reproductive system. So, in women, menstruation can be observed, and in men - a decrease in libido, a decrease in sperm quality, erectile dysfunction.
Hyperthyroidism: diagnosis
To make the correct diagnosis, the level of hormones in the blood is examined and an ultrasound of the gland is performed. To check the functioning of the thyroid gland, scintigraphy can be performed, during which a radioactive isotope of iodine is introduced into the body in the form of a liquid or in a capsule.
Thyroid Hyperthyroidism: Treatment
Pharmacological therapy is carried out by taking a patient's anti-thyroid drugs that slow down the synthesis of hormones. Medicines begin to act only after a few days, since the body must first absorb high concentrations of previously released hormones. In addition, a radioiodine treatment can be carried out that damages the cells of the thyroid gland, which leads to the cessation of hormone production. During pregnancy, such therapy is not used, as it carries a risk to the fetus. In some cases, surgery is performed, during which either part of the gland or all of it is excised.