Hyperthyroidism – Overview

An often overlooked cause of anxiety, palpitation, trembling hands and abnormal weight loss is hyperthyroidism - a condition of the thyroid gland that can cause any or all of the above symptoms.

Hyperactivity of the thyroid gland causes hyperthyroidism. In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland produces more hormone than the body needs. Thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland situated at the base of the front portion of the neck. The thyroid gland produces hormones necessary for many different functions within the body. The body’s metabolism is controlled by this gland. It maintains the rate, at which the body uses fats and carbohydrates, helps control body temperature, influences heart rate and helps regulate the production of proteins.

Enlargement of the thyroid gland, called goitre, occurs in most people with hyperthyroidism. A swelling can be seen or felt at the front of the patient’s neck. Sometimes, only the doctor will be able to detect goitre. Most people resp ond well once hyperthyroidism is diagnosed and treated. If ignored, it can lead to serious health complications. The most common condition that causes hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease. The patient may also develop hyperthyroidism if they eat, drink or are otherwise exposed to substances with a high amount of iodine. Iodine is used by the body to make the thyroid hormone. Taking too much thyroid hormone medication can also cause hyperthyroidism. The most reliable test to confirm whether the thyroid is functioning normally is a blood test for the thyroid hormone, called the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). This can be done in any standard pathology laboratory.

Homeopathy, helps in improving various symptoms of the disease and improves the overall quality of life.

Incidence

• Graves’ disease is the most common form of hyperthyroidism, with an annual incidence of one case per thousand.
• Hyperthyroidism occurs more frequently in regions with iodine deficiency.
• Hyperthyroidism occurs more frequently in women than in men.
• Graves’ disease has a male: female ratio of 1:10.
• Autoimmune hyperthyroidism has a peak incidence in people aged 20 to 40 years.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism may have vague symptoms, especially at the onset. Some of the presenting symptoms include excess appetite, weight loss in spite of eating well, goitre (enlarged thyroid gland), tremors, muscle weakness, fatigue and palpitations. Affected individuals are generally intolerant of heat and have excessive perspiration, with warm moist skin.

Diagnosis of Hyperthyroidism

A physical examination and laboratory tests that measure the amount of thyroid hormone in your blood are necessary. Our doctors may ask you to get a picture of your thyroid (a thyroid scan). The measurement of antibodies in blood that attack the thyroid may help in diagnosing the cause of hyperthyroidism.

Homeopathy Treatment for Hyperthyroidism

Homeopathy plays an important role in the treatment of hyperthyroidism. Homeopathy treats the disease internally and strengthens the body’s immune system.