An overactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism, is a condition that affects the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones that control the body’s metabolism. When it becomes overactive, it can cause a variety of symptoms. Some of which can have a lasting negative effect on your day-to-day life. Whether it is mild or severe, hyperthyroidism can be a difficult condition to live with. In order to help you better understand the different symptoms of an overactive thyroid, this article will look at a list of some of the most common.
Causes Of An Overactive Thyroid
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that sits at the base of the neck. Its primary purpose is to produce two hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which help to regulate the body’s metabolism. An overactive thyroid occurs when the gland produces too much of these hormones.
In some cases, an overactive thyroid can also cause goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland. Many factors can contribute to an overactive thyroid, including Graves’ disease, diffuse toxic goiter, Plummer’s disease, and thyroiditis. While Graves’ disease is the most common cause of an overactive thyroid, it is not the only one. Anyone who suspects they may have an overactive thyroid should speak to their doctor for further evaluation.
Symptoms Of An Overactive Thyroid
While the symptoms of an overactive thyroid can vary from person to person, some are more common than others. Here are a few of the signs to watch out for:
Muscle Weakness
The thyroid is in the neck and produces hormones that help regulate the body’s metabolism. An overactive thyroid produces too many of these hormones, which can lead to various symptoms, including muscle weakness. In general, the muscles affected by an overactive thyroid are those that are closest to the body’s center, such as the muscles in the trunk and thighs.
The most common sign of muscle weakness is difficulty lifting or moving objects. While this may not be the most debilitating symptom on its own, it can be a sign that the condition is progressing and becoming more severe.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom of an overactive thyroid, and it can be one of the most frustrating aspects of the condition. After all, who doesn’t feel tired sometimes? But with an overactive thyroid, fatigue can be constant and debilitating. It can make it hard to get through the day and interfere with work, exercise, and social activities.
The good news is that there are treatments available that can help relieve fatigue and other symptoms of an overactive thyroid. If you believe you may have an overactive thyroid, talk to your doctor about getting a diagnosis and starting treatment.
