Thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped, small sized gland situated in front side of the neck. Thyroid gland produces thyroxine hormones T3 & T4 which regulate the metabolism of the body. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which thyroid is overactive and there is excessive production of thyroid hormones (T3 & T4) by the thyroid gland. Since the thyroid hormones regulate the metabolism of the body thus each and every organ is affected by it including the heart beat as well.

RISK FACTORS

Risk factors of hyperthyroidism include:

  • SEX: female sex is more prone to develop hyperthyroidism than male sex.
  • AGE: if you are above 60 then chances are more.
  • FAMILY HISTORY: of hyperthyroidism or any other auto-immune disorder would increases the chances of developing hyperthyroidism.
  • EXCESS IODINE: eating more iodine in diet or medicines containing iodine would also cause more thyroid hormone production.
  • CERTAIN DISEASES: like type 1 diabetes, pernicious anemia and adrenal insufficiency.
  • POST PREGNANCY: there are chances that you might develop hyperthyroidism.

COMPLICATIONS

Hyperthyroidism can cause many complications :

  • Atrial Fibrillation: is a condition in which heart rate is rapid and rhythm is also disturbed. This is the most common complication of hyperthyroidism. This increases the risk of stroke and heart failure.
  • Osteoporosis: hyperthyroidism if left untreated then interfere with calcium deposition in the bone making them weak and brittle.
  • Graves ophthalmopathy: is an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies are produced by the immune system to produce more thyroid hormones. This includes problems related to the eyes- poor vision, bulging of eyes, redness, swelling and sensitivity to light. This may affect skin also causing redness and swelling.
  • Thyrotoxic crisis: may also occur when there is sudden increase in hormones causing sudden intensified symptoms.

SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES

SYMPTOMS

The signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism are:

  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Increased appetite and weakness
  • Irregular and rapid heart beat with palpitations
  • Nervousness, anxiety and restlessness
  • Itching and hair loss, hair become thin and brittle
  • Difficulty sleeping and dizziness
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Breast development in men
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sweating
  • Irregular menses
  • Increased bowel movements
  • Graves ophthalmopathy causing bulging of eyes and vision problems
  • Unhealthy skin

CAUSES

Variety of conditions can cause hyperthyroidism:

  • Graves disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. It is an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies are formed by the immune system to produce more thyroid hormones thus thyroid becomes overactive.
  • Overactive thyroid nodules: are non-cancerous lumps in the thyroid which produce more thyroid hormones.
  • Inflammation of thyroid: would also produce more thyroid hormones.
  • Consumption: if consumption of iodine is more then also thyroid gland would be overactive.
  • Post pregnancy: also thyroid may become overactive.
  • Too much medicines: for hypothyroidism.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

DIAGNOSIS

To diagnose hyperthyroidism following things can be done:

Symptoms: typical symptoms of hyperthyroidism would help in diagnosing it

Examination of thyroid gland: thyroid gland is enlarged in hyperthyroidism thus would be palpable on examination.

Blood test: levels of TSH, T3 and T4 in blood.

Radioiodine uptake test: the more the thyroid gland picks up the radioiodine the more active it is.

Thyroid scan after injecting radioactive isotope.

Thyroid ultrasound: would help in detecting thyroid nodules.

TREATMENT

Conventional treatment for hyperthyroidism include radioactive iodine, anti-thyroid medications, beta blockers, surgery(thyroidectomy) but these treatments are not permanent and safe. Thus homeopathic treatment is the best treatment for hyperthyroidism.

MANAGEMENT

Management of hyperthyroidism include:

  • Advice on regular exercise should be given to the patient to help the patient improve generally.
  • Healthy diet
  • would help in maintaining weight and metabolism
  • Meditation and relaxation techniques would help releasing stress and would maintain mental well being
  • Smoking: should be discontinued
  • Maintain hygiene of eye and keep them lubricated.

HOMEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT

There are medicines like natrum mur, sepia, calcarea carb, kali carb, thyroidinum, completely without recurrence. But medicine depends on the presentation of the case and should never be taken without consulting a registered homeopath. Homeopathy has permanent cure  for Hyperthyroidism.

DO’s AND DON’Ts

Do’s

  • Avoid food items high in iodine
  • Do regular physical exercise
  • Eat healthy diet
  • Take plenty of water
  • Do meditation

Don’ts

  • Don’t ignore the condition
  • Don’t smoke