The human thyroid gland stimulates the necessary hormones that control the metabolism of our cells. The thyroid gland controls how our body uses energy by removing iodine from the blood (from eating foods such as bread, salt, and shellfish) and using it to make thyroid hormones. Sometimes you may have overactive tissue within the thyroid gland and this can lead to an overproduction of thyroid hormones and consequently develop an excess of free circulating thyroid hormones called hyperthyroidism.
The excessive production of free thyroid hormones overstimulates the metabolism. The result is that it exacerbates the effect of the nervous system, causing the acceleration of various systems of the body. One of the first symptoms is the feeling of an overdose of epinephrine (adrenaline). Other symptoms include excessive sweating, rapid heartbeat, increased bowel movements, nervousness, and agitation. In severe cases, a patient may experience gradual weight loss and fatigue. Irregular and scanty menstrual flow can occur in women.
The first symptoms of high thyroid levels, especially in older women, may not be noticeable. Advanced symptoms are easy to spot. However, in all cases, a blood test is needed to confirm the diagnosis. One visible symptom is an enlarged thyroid gland. Some patients may also have velvety smooth skin and fine hair. It is advisable to see a doctor for a correct diagnosis and possible treatment.
High thyroid levels are not a common disease, only a negligible percentage of the population suffers from this disease, however, it can cause death if not treated on time. The main treatment and general modalities employed by clinicians involve the initial use of suppressive thyrostatic drugs and possibly the subsequent use of radioisotope or permanent surgical therapy. The main classes of drugs used to treat these symptoms include beta-blockers, in this class are (propranolol, metoprolol, and atenolol (Tenormin).
These drugs are made to counteract the effect of thyroid hormone and increase metabolism, however, they do not alter the levels of thyroid hormones in the blood. Some medications can have harmful side effects, which is why it’s good to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Your doctor may decide that the best treatment for you is surgery. Surgery consists of partially removing the thyroid gland (partial thyroidectomy) with the aim of removing the thyroid tissue that was producing excess thyroid hormone.