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 a medical professional will be able to detect goitre. Most people respond 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.

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: 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. To know more about symptoms, Read more.

Diagnosis: Our homeopaths will perform physical examination and ask questions related to your hyperthyroidism symptoms. They will conduct a TSH test that measures the amount of thyroid hormone in your blood. To know more about diagnosis, Read more.

Treatment approach at Dr Batra's ™:

Step 1: First Consultation – Our homeopaths will spend 30-45 minutes with you to understand the exact cause of hyperthyroidism. We will take into account your medical history, family history of thyroid disorder, and lifestyle. Depending on all these factors, our homeopaths suggest customized homeopathic treatment that will help you cope with hyperthyroidism.

Step 2: Medical Diagnosis – Our homeopaths will perform physical examination and ask questions related to your hyperthyroidism symptoms. They will conduct a TSH test that measures the amount of thyroid hormone in your blood.

Step 3: Personalized Treatment - Natural homeopathic medicines are suggested based on the diagnosis made and extent of the condition.

Step 4: Advice on lifestyle – Our homeopaths will guide you on to how you can make certain changes in your diet, daily routine, and physical activity to restore normal TSH levels in your body. Read more.