Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
Also called: Graves' disease, Thyrotoxicosis
The thyroid makes too much hormone, speeding up metabolism: weight loss, racing heart, heat intolerance and anxiety. Graves' disease is the most common cause.
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Causes
- Graves' disease (antibodies stimulate the TSH receptor)
- Toxic nodular goitre
- Thyroiditis
- Excess thyroid hormone medication
Risk factors
- Female sex
- Family history
- Smoking (Graves' eye disease)
Symptoms
- Weight loss despite good appetite
- Palpitations and tremor
- Heat intolerance and sweating
- Anxiety and irritability
- Diarrhoea
- Goitre
- Bulging eyes (Graves')
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Low TSH, high free T4/T3
- TSH-receptor antibodies
- Thyroid uptake scan
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Antithyroid drugs (carbimazole, methimazole, propylthiouracil in early pregnancy)
- Beta-blockers for symptoms
Operations and procedures
- Radioactive iodine
- Thyroidectomy
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Stop smoking (protects the eyes)
Possible complications
- Atrial fibrillation
- Osteoporosis
- Thyroid eye disease
- Thyroid storm (emergency)
Prevention
- No reliable prevention
Outlook
Very treatable; many need lifelong thyroxine after definitive treatment.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for unexplained weight loss with palpitations; urgently for fever, confusion and very fast heart rate.
Sources and further reading
These sources cover this condition. They have not been checked against every statement on this page.
Related conditions
Educational overview, not medical advice. Treatment varies by person and location. Consult a qualified health professional for diagnosis or care. Read our content and model notes and privacy information.