What Are the Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is a common thyroid problem that indicates your thyroid is overactive. This means your thyroid gland is producing excessive amounts of thyroid hormones.

Thyroid hormones are necessary for many of your body's functions. However, an imbalance can cause various physical and mental symptoms. Recognizing the symptoms of hyperthyroidism is the first step to getting ahead of the condition. The next is consulting with Dr. Rajesh Dave at Gulf West Medical Associates in Port Richey, Florida. 

Dr. Dave is a board-certified internal medicine specialist whose expertise includes diagnosing and treating hyperthyroidism. Here, he breaks down the basics of the condition and identifies its common symptoms to help you recognize them if they occur. 

Understanding the basics of hyperthyroidism

Before diving into the symptoms, it's essential to understand the basics of hyperthyroidism. 

The thyroid gland, which is in the front of your neck, is responsible for producing hormones that regulate your metabolism, body temperature, and heart rate. 

When your thyroid produces too many of these hormones, it triggers an imbalance, causing various symptoms and health complications.

What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism? 

Hyperthyroidism can manifest in various ways, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Some common symptoms include:

• Unexplainable and unintentional weight loss despite an increased appetite
• Tremors in your hands and fingers 
• Anxiety, mood swings, and irritability
• Fatigue and weakness, even after getting sufficient rest 
• Irregular or rapid heartbeat
• Shortness of breath and chest pain 
• Irregular menstrual periods 
• Visibly enlarged thyroid gland
• Hair loss 
• Skin changes 
• Nail changes 
• Restlessness 

If left untreated, these symptoms can lead to severe health complications, such as cardiovascular diseases and osteoporosis, which causes weak bones. 

What to do next

Recognizing the symptoms of hyperthyroidism is crucial in identifying when to seek treatment. At the earliest indication of any of the above symptoms, you should consult Dr. Dave, who performs blood tests to measure your thyroid hormone levels and diagnose the underlying cause. 

Additionally, he develops a personalized treatment plan, which may include medication, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery, depending on the cause and severity of your condition.

At Gulf West Medical Associates, we closely monitor your progress and adjust your treatment as needed to manage your symptoms effectively. 

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that can significantly impact your quality of life and, if left untreated, may lead to serious health complications. By recognizing the common symptoms of hyperthyroidism and seeking prompt medical attention, you can get ahead of the condition and take control of your health. 

You don't have to navigate hyperthyroidism alone. Let us get to the bottom of your symptoms and provide you with an effective and personalized treatment plan. Book an appointment by calling us at 727-848-0247 or scheduling online today.