Hyperthyroidism
Sure! Here's a concise and clear note on **Hyperthyroidism**:
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### **Hyperthyroidism - Notes**
**Definition:**
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces **too much thyroid hormone (T3 and T4)**, speeding up the body's metabolism.
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### **Causes:**
1. **Graves' disease** (most common cause) – an autoimmune disorder.
2. **Toxic multinodular goiter**
3. **Thyroid adenoma (toxic nodule)**
4. **Thyroiditis** (inflammation of the thyroid)
5. **Excessive iodine intake**
6. **Overmedication with thyroid hormone**
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### **Symptoms:**
- Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite
- Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), palpitations
- Nervousness, anxiety, irritability
- Tremors (usually hands)
- Sweating, heat intolerance
- Increased bowel movements
- Menstrual irregularities
- Fatigue, muscle weakness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Goiter (enlarged thyroid)
- Eye problems (especially in Graves’ disease – bulging eyes)
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### **Diagnosis:**
- **Blood tests:**
- ↓ TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone)
- ↑ T3 and T4 levels
- **Radioactive iodine uptake test**
- **Thyroid scan**
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### **Treatment:**
1. **Antithyroid medications** – e.g., Methimazole, Propylthiouracil (PTU)
2. **Beta-blockers** – to control symptoms like rapid heart rate
3. **Radioactive iodine therapy** – destroys overactive thyroid tissue
4. **Surgery (thyroidectomy)** – in severe cases or if other treatments fail
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### **Complications (if untreated):**
- Thyroid storm (life-threatening hyperthyroid crisis)
- Heart problems (atrial fibrillation, heart failure)
- Osteoporosis
- Eye problems (especially in Graves' disease)
- Infertility or pregnancy complications
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