Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, often goes unnoticed until symptoms disrupt daily life. At Palmetto Endocrinology, we understand its impact and stress the importance of early detection so you can feel like yourself again. 

Here at Palmetto Endocrinology, we have specialists that understand the significant impact this condition can have on your health and well-being.  With the right treatment, you can take back control and feel like yourself again.  

Here are some of the signs of three key categories to help you stay informed and proactive.   

Physical changes 

Hyperthyroidism often causes noticeable physical changes that can be early indicators of the condition. These are easy to spot due to their impact on the body’s appearance or basic functions.  

Unexplained weight loss  

Many people with hyperthyroidism experience sudden weight loss despite maintaining or even increasing their appetite. This occurs because excess thyroid hormones accelerate your metabolism, causing your body to burn more calories than it usually would.  

Neck swelling--goiter  

An enlarged thyroid gland, known as a goiter, may develop, causing noticeable swelling in the neck area. If you experience a sensation of fullness or discomfort in this region, call us.  

Hair loss or brittle hair  

Thyroid hormone imbalances can impact hair health, resulting in thinning hair, hair loss, or brittle strands. This sign is commonly dismissed as stress-related but could point to an overactive thyroid. 

Physical symptoms like these are often the first clues that lead people to seek medical advice. Identifying them early can prevent more extensive complications down the line. 

Energy and mood fluctuations  

Your thyroid helps regulate your body’s energy and emotional well-being. When thyroid hormone production goes into overdrive, symptoms related to energy and mood often surface.  

Nervousness and anxiety  

Excessive thyroid hormones can overstimulate your nervous system, leading to feelings of nervousness and irritability. You might find yourself feeling on edge or anxious without any apparent cause.  

Difficulty sleeping  

Hyperthyroidism can make it hard to get a good night's sleep. You might find it difficult to fall asleep, wake up at unusual times, or experience increased restlessness throughout the night. 

Fatigue paired with muscle weakness  

Ironically, although hyperthyroidism can leave you feeling jittery or highly energetic, it also causes muscle weakness and fatigue over time. Simple tasks like climbing stairs or lifting kids could become more challenging.  

These psychological and energy-related symptoms often accompany the physical signs noted above, painting a bigger picture of thyroid overactivity. 

Disruptions to heart and gut health  

Hyperthyroidism also places stress on many of your body’s systems, particularly your heart and digestive system. These symptoms can sometimes go unnoticed but may become more pronounced as the condition progresses. 

Rapid heart rate--tachycardia 

Heart palpitations or an increased heart rate are frequently observed manifestations of thyroid overactivity. Some individuals describe experiencing sensations of a rapid or irregular heartbeat, even while at rest. 

Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea  

Since thyroid hormone influences metabolism and digestion, hyperthyroidism may increase the rate of digestive processes, resulting in more frequent bowel movements or loose stools. 

Heat intolerance and excessive sweating  

Heightened sensitivity to body temperature, along with heavy sweating, is a common symptom. You may find yourself feeling overly warm, even when those around you are comfortable or chilly.  

These internal disruptions may coincide with the physical and emotional symptoms we noted. 

Is your thyroid overactive? 

If you suspect an overactive thyroid, our providers at Palmetto Endocrinology are here to help. Our experts can provide personalized care and treatment options at two convenient locations.  

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us at Palmetto Endocrinology today. 

Author

Joseph Mathews, MD, FACP, FACE, ECNU, CCD Joseph W. Mathews M.D., a board certified Endocrinologist and Medical Director of Palmetto Endocrinology, was born and raised in South Carolina. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from the College of Charleston, Cum Laude. He then achieved his M.D. at the Medical University of South Carolina where he also completed his residency in Internal Medicine and a Fellowship in Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism. Dr. Mathews is also a Fellow of both the American College of Endocrinology and the American College of Physicians, holds an Endocrine Certification in Neck Ultrasound (ECNU) and is a Certified Clinical Densitometrist (CCD). He has extensive experience performing ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration biopsies. His practice includes a range of specializations including prescribing and fitting patients with insulin pumps. Dr. Mathews' practice has drawn patients from out of state to benefit from his expertise in thyroid disorders, diabetes, cortisol problems and their Endocrine disorders.