What Causes Overactive Thyroid?

March 13, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's

Overactive Thyroid

An overactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism, occurs when the thyroid gland produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormones. Several factors can contribute to the development of hyperthyroidism, including:

  • Graves’ disease: Graves’ disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism and occurs when the immune system produces antibodies that stimulate the thyroid gland to produce too much thyroid hormone. Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues.
  • Thyroid nodules: Nodules or lumps in the thyroid gland can produce excess thyroid hormone, leading to hyperthyroidism. These nodules may be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
  • Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland, known as thyroiditis, can cause temporary hyperthyroidism as thyroid hormone stored in the gland is released into the bloodstream. Thyroiditis can be caused by various factors, including viral infections, autoimmune conditions, or postpartum thyroiditis (which occurs after childbirth).
  • Excessive iodine intake: Consuming too much iodine, either through diet or medications containing iodine (such as amiodarone or certain contrast dyes), can lead to hyperthyroidism, especially in individuals with underlying thyroid disorders.
  • Toxic multinodular goiter: A multinodular goiter is an enlarged thyroid gland with multiple nodules or lumps. In some cases, one or more nodules may become overactive and produce excess thyroid hormone, leading to hyperthyroidism.
  • Thyroid cancer: Although less common, certain types of thyroid cancer, such as follicular thyroid carcinoma or papillary thyroid carcinoma, can produce excess thyroid hormone and cause hyperthyroidism.
  • Medications: Certain medications, such as thyroid hormone replacement therapy (levothyroxine), can inadvertently lead to hyperthyroidism if the dosage is too high.
  • Pituitary adenoma: A pituitary adenoma, a noncancerous tumor of the pituitary gland, can produce excessive amounts of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which stimulates the thyroid gland to produce more thyroid hormone, leading to hyperthyroidism.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism can vary widely and may include rapid heartbeat (palpitations), tremors, weight loss, heat intolerance, increased sweating, anxiety, irritability, fatigue, muscle weakness, and changes in menstrual patterns. Treatment for hyperthyroidism depends on the underlying cause and may include medications (such as antithyroid drugs), radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy). It’s important for individuals experiencing symptoms of hyperthyroidism to seek evaluation and treatment from a healthcare professional.

«
»

  • Recent Posts

  • Categories

  • Archives

  • Tags

    bestime Black fungus coronavirus covid19 detox drinks diagnosis and treatment Early Morning Empty Stomach Guava-benefits Healthy BreakfastFood healthy diet healthydrink immunityboosters Protein proteinpowders recipes Uterine fibroid uterus weightloss workout