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Hyperthyroidism Introduction |
Hyperthyroidism, also
known as thyrotoxicosis, is a
condition characterized by both the
increased metabolism, and elevated
serum levels of thyroid hormones. The condition can be
caused by several different disease
states, all with the same result. Of the
diseases that can cause
hyperthyroidism; Grave's
disease, which is also
known as a diffuse toxic goiter,
is the most common. Other diseases that can cause
hyperthyroidism are pituitary tumors
that secretes excess TSH (the
hormone that tells thyroid to
produce and secrete more hormones),
toxic multinodular goiter,
thyroiditis (inflammation of
thyroid), excessive iodine
ingestion, and congenital
hyperthyroidism. [1]
Grave's disease is an
autoimmune cause of
hyperthyroidism. It accounts for
nearly 85% of all diagnosed cases of hyperthyroidism
in the US. It is more common in
women than men. The average age of
incidence is between 20 and 40 years
old. Stress is thought to be a
precipitating factor in the
development of Grave's disease. [2]
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Hyperthyroidism Signs and Symptoms
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The clinical
signs and symptoms of
hyperthyroidism can vary from
patient to patient. Common
complaints are often the result from
an increase in metabolism brought on
by the elevated serum thyroid
hormones, as well as an increase in
adrenergic (adrenalin) response. Symptoms
of hyperthyroidism can include;
-
warmth
-
increased
sweating
-
moist skin
-
increased
heart rate
-
nervousness
-
increased
energy and activity
-
loose bowel
movements
-
weight loss
-
insomnia
-
increased appetite
-
tremor
-
fatigue
-
eye signs, which may include lid
lag, lid retraction, stare, and
redness of the conjunctiva
Persons
with Graves' disease will also have
characteristic eye signs as a result
of the auto-immune interaction with
the eye, including orbital pain,
increased tearing, irritation,
photophobia, and protrusion of the
eyes. Pre-tibial myxedema can also
occur in persons with Grave's
disease.
Clinical signs that
are commonly observed by physician
for diagnosis of hyperthyroidism, include;
-
goiter (enlargement of the
thyroid)
-
exophthalmos (protrusion
of the eyes)
-
pre-tibial
myxedema
-
changes in the blood pressure. [3]
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Learn More About
Hyperthyroidism |
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