What are the symptoms of an overactive thyroid?
January 10, 2022 | 120,00 EUR | answered by Ben Koch
Dear Doctor,
My name is Ben Heuser and I am reaching out to you because I am concerned about my health. In the past few weeks, I have noticed some symptoms that worry me and I suspect they could indicate an overactive thyroid.
For some time now, I have been feeling constantly restless and anxious, have trouble falling asleep, and wake up frequently at night. Additionally, I have experienced increased heart palpitations and my pulse is significantly elevated. I have also lost weight, even though my appetite is normal. My skin is warm and moist, and I sweat often, even when it's not particularly warm. Furthermore, I have noticed increased hair loss and my nails are brittle. My metabolism seems to be accelerated as I need to use the bathroom more often and my bowel movements have changed.
These symptoms are causing me great concern and impacting my daily life. I wonder if they could indeed indicate an overactive thyroid and what further tests are necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. I am also interested in learning about possible treatment options to alleviate my symptoms and improve my health.
Thank you in advance for your time and assistance in addressing my questions. I look forward to hearing from you and hope for a prompt response.
Sincerely,
Ben Heuser
Dear Mr. Heuser,
Thank you for your detailed description of your symptoms. It is understandable that you are concerned about your health, especially if these symptoms are affecting your daily life. I will try to answer your questions as comprehensively as possible.
The symptoms you described, such as restlessness, nervousness, sleep problems, palpitations, weight loss, increased sweating, hair loss, brittle nails, accelerated metabolism, and changes in bowel movements, could indeed indicate an overactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism. The thyroid is an important organ that produces hormones that regulate metabolism and many other bodily functions. An overactive thyroid can lead to the symptoms you described.
Various tests are necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. Initially, a physical examination will be performed, during which the doctor will palpate your thyroid and look for further signs of overactivity. Blood tests will also be conducted to check thyroid hormone levels. An ultrasound of the thyroid may also be performed to detect any tissue changes.
If an overactive thyroid is indeed diagnosed, there are various treatment options available. The therapy will primarily depend on the cause of the overactivity. In many cases, the symptoms are initially managed with medications that inhibit the production of thyroid hormones. In some cases, radioiodine therapy or surgery may be considered to treat the overactivity.
It is important that you consult a doctor if symptoms persist to receive an accurate diagnosis and start appropriate treatment. I recommend scheduling an appointment with your primary care physician or an endocrinologist promptly to further assess your symptoms.
I hope my response has been helpful and I am here to assist you with any further questions.
Sincerely,
Ben Koch
