Hyperthyroidism Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms come on slowly. They may be mistaken for stress. As the thyroid becomes more overactive, symptoms may include:

Fatigue
Unexplained weight loss with increased appetite
Restlessness
Changes in libido
Muscle weakness and wasting, especially in the elderly
Heat intolerance
Tremors
Enlarged thyroid gland ( goiter )
Heart palpitations
Increased sweating
Nervousness
Irritability
Redness, swelling, and protrusion of the eyes
Lumpy, reddish thickening of the skin in front of the shins
Shortness of breath
Increased number of bowel movements
Irregular or no menstrual period
Heart failure or atrial fibrillation , especially in the elderly
Swelling of hands, face, and/or feet
Muscle pain
Hoarse sound to your voice

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical and family history, and perform a physical exam. The exam usually reveals:

Enlarged thyroid gland
Rapid pulse
Warm, moist skin
Several of the symptoms listed above

Your doctor may order the following tests:

Blood tests
- Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), currently the best screening test
- Free T4 and free T3
- Thyroid autoantibodies (TSH receptor antibody)
- Thyroid scan—may be needed to differentiate between Graves' disease and other causes
Radioactive iodine uptake test—measures how active thyroid is in taking up the iodine
Needle biopsy of the thyroid—may be needed

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.