Endocrinology, by video or in person
Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism)
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism)
- Weight loss despite eating well or more
- A fast, pounding or irregular heartbeat
- Feeling hot, sweating, and finding heat hard to tolerate
- Shaky hands, nervousness, irritability or anxiety
- Difficulty sleeping
An overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism, means the thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormone, so the body's processes speed up. The most common cause is Graves' disease, an autoimmune condition that can also affect the eyes. Lumps in the thyroid (nodules) and inflammation of the thyroid are other causes. It is more common in women. It is confirmed with a blood test showing a low TSH and high thyroid hormones, and it is treated with tablets, radioactive iodine or surgery. Untreated, it can strain the heart and weaken the bones, so it should not be left alone.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Weight loss despite eating well or more
- A fast, pounding or irregular heartbeat
- Feeling hot, sweating, and finding heat hard to tolerate
- Shaky hands, nervousness, irritability or anxiety
- Difficulty sleeping
- Frequent loose stools
- Lighter or less frequent periods
- Bulging, gritty, red or watery eyes, or double vision
- A swelling in the neck (goitre)
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital now if someone with an overactive thyroid has a very fast heartbeat with a high fever, confusion, agitation, vomiting or diarrhoea, which can be a thyroid storm; or if they have chest pain, breathlessness or fainting. Also go to a hospital if eye symptoms come with sudden loss or blurring of vision. See a doctor if you have the symptoms above or a neck swelling. An endocrinologist should guide treatment.
Treatment options
- Antithyroid tablets, such as carbimazole, with regular blood tests
- Beta blockers to slow the heart and ease shaking while other treatment takes effect
- Radioactive iodine treatment, for some people
- Surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid, for some people
- Eye care from an eye specialist if Graves' disease affects the eyes
- Stopping smoking, which makes thyroid eye disease worse
Common Questions
Are there side effects from antithyroid tablets?
Most people take them without problems. Rarely they lower the white blood cells that fight infection, so get a blood test urgently if you develop a sore throat, mouth ulcers or a fever while on them.
Can an overactive thyroid affect pregnancy?
Yes. Tell your doctor if you are planning a pregnancy or are pregnant, because treatment may need to change to keep you and the baby safe.
Can this be managed by video?
Much of it can, since care depends on blood tests and medicine doses. An endocrinologist will say when you need an examination, a scan, or a referral for eye care or surgery.
Need Help?
A hormone and diabetes specialist on a video call, who reads your results, plans treatment and the tests to repeat.
See an endocrinologist by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified endocrinology specialist near you.
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