Hyperthyroidism: When the Thyroid Races
Heart palpitations and weight loss are classic clues.
Dr. Camille Ferraud
Endocrinologist
- Palpitations, fast heartbeat
- Unintended weight loss with normal appetite
- Heat intolerance, sweating
- Tremor, anxiety, insomnia
- Eye prominence in Graves' disease
Diagnosis
Low TSH with elevated free T4/T3 confirms thyrotoxicosis. TSH receptor antibodies and thyroid uptake scan identify the cause.
Treatment options
- Antithyroid drugs (carbimazole, methimazole)
- Radioactive iodine
- Surgery (total thyroidectomy)
Eye disease
Graves' ophthalmopathy is independent of thyroid hormone levels and may need specialised care including steroids or teprotumumab in severe cases.
Smoking dramatically worsens Graves' eye disease: cessation is the single most useful intervention.
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