What is hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is a medical condition characterized by hyperactivation of the thyroid gland and release of excess thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland plays a critical role in the body’s metabolism – excess thyroid hormone results in an increased metabolic rate. This leads to features such as anxiety-agitation, palpitations, tremor, weight loss, sensitivity to heat, insomnia, increased heart rate (tachycardia), and diarrhea. Serious long-term effects may include osteoporosis, cardiac arrhythmias, and heart failure.
Graves’ disease is the most common form of hyperthyroidism and is characterized by exophthalmos (bulging of the eyes), periorbital and conjunctival edema, impaired eye movement, and pretibial myxedema. It …show more content…
Your doctor will evaluate for this by having you follow their finger up and down –lid lag is present if your sclera can be seen above the iris as you look downward.
How is hyperthyroidism diagnosed?
The diagnosis of hyperthyroidism is suggested based on symptoms and physical examination, but typically confirmed with a thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test that is low and a free T4 level that is high.
If you are not pregnant, your doctor will likely check your blood for thyrotropin receptor antibodies and order a radioactive iodine uptake test. They may also check for thyroidal blood flow on ultrasonography to distinguish Graves' disease from other causes of hyperthyroidism. Pregnancy and breastfeeding are contraindications for radionuclide imaging.
Your doctor may also check basic blood tests including a CMP (comprehensive metabolic panel) and CBC (complete blood cell count), as well as a urine drug screen.
If your heart rate is elevated, your doctor will likely obtain EKG (electrocardiogram). If you have signs of heart failure they may also order a chest x-ray and ultrasound of the heart (echocardiogram).
How is hyperthyroidism