Hyperthyroidism - Symptoms

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism may be vague, and often mimic other illnesses and conditions. If someone has a very mild form of hyperthyroidism, they may not notice any symptoms. An overactive thyroid often leads to discomfort or even disability that may disturb their everyday activities or routine. Below is a list of the various symptoms:

• anxiety, nervousness and irritability
• frequent, loose bowel movements
• difficulty sleeping
• double vision
• eyes that bulge out or "protrude" (in patients with Graves' disease)
• hair quality changes, that is brittle hair, thinning of the hair and hair loss
• irregular heart beat (arrhythmia), especially in older adults
• menstrual cycle changes, including lighter bleeding and less frequent periods
• muscle weakness, especially in thighs and upper arms
• rapid growth of fingernails
• rapid heartbeat, usually over 100 beats per minute
• shaky hands
• sweating
• thinning skin
• weight loss despite an increased appetite

It is important to note that these symptoms can be due to other medical conditions and disorders ranging from simple anxiety to more serious health problems. The best recourse would be to consult our doctors, who will be able to help diagnose the problem and provide guidance.

When to see a doctor

If someone experiences unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, unusual sweating, swelling at the base of the neck or other symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism, they should consult a doctor. It is important to provide a detailed description of the experienced symptoms, because many signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism may be associated with several other problems.