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.
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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.
Mood Swings
Mood swings can be a normal part of life, but they can also be a symptom of an overactive thyroid. When the thyroid is overactive, it can release too many hormones into the bloodstream, leading to several symptoms, including mood swings.
People with an overactive thyroid may feel anxious or irritable, and their moods can change rapidly and dramatically. If you are experiencing mood swings, it’s essential to talk to your doctor to see if it could be related to an underlying condition.
Hyperactivity
Many people are familiar with the term “hyperactivity,” but they may not know that it can be a symptom of an overactive thyroid. People with this condition may constantly feel on the go and have difficulty sitting still. They may also speak quickly and have trouble concentrating. If you or someone you know is exhibiting any of these symptoms, it is vital to see a doctor for a diagnosis.
You can treat overactive thyroid with medication, so there is no need to suffer from the symptoms. However, hyperactivity can also be a symptom of other conditions, so it is essential to get a proper diagnosis.
Weight Loss
An overactive thyroid can significantly impact your health, and one of the most noticeable effects is weight loss. Even if you are eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, an overactive thyroid can cause your body to burn calories at a faster rate than normal. As a result, you may notice that you are losing weight even though you are not trying to diet or lose weight.
Furthermore, weight loss associated with an overactive thyroid is often not just a matter of losing a few pounds. In many cases, people with this condition can lose a significant amount of weight and may even develop an eating disorder.
Trembling
Many people are familiar with the symptoms of an overactive thyroid, such as weight loss, fatigue, and anxiety. However, another common symptom is trembling. This can manifest in several ways, from feeling shaky and unsteady to having difficulty controlling fine motor skills. In severe cases, the whole body may tremble.
While trembling can be alarming, it is essential to remember that it is a relatively common symptom of an overactive thyroid. Therefore, if you are experiencing trembling, especially in combination with other symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor so that they can rule out any other potential causes.
Be Aware Of The Symptoms Of Overactive Thyroid
An overactive thyroid can cause various symptoms, from fatigue and weight loss to mood swings and trembling. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor so that you can get a proper diagnosis and treatment. You can manage your symptoms and live a healthy life with the proper treatment. And remember, you are not alone—many people suffer from an overactive thyroid, and help is available.
