The hormones required for the body’s functions such as growth, reproduction, metabolism, homeostasis, some immunological functions, etc. are produced by endocrine glands which constitute the endocrine system. The endocrine system regulates all body processes by releasing necessary hormones. If this system fails to function or doesn’t perform rightly, it causes endocrine disorders.
The hormone imbalance (too high amount of hormones or very little amount of hormones) can lead to disorders. Examples are acromegaly, diabetes mellitus, pituitary disorders, thyroid disorders (hypo & hyperthyroidism), etc.
Let us learn about one of the examples of hyperthyroidism.
What is Hyperthyroidism?
It is a condition in which the thyroid glands release an excess amount of thyroid hormones {triiodothyronine(T3) and thyroxine(T4)} than the body requires. This happens when the thyroid glands are overactive. Females are more prone to this disorder compared to males.
What are the causes?
1. Inflammation of thyroid gland – thyroiditis
2. Thyroid nodules
3. Grave’s disease, an autoimmune disease
4. Intake of excess iodine
5. Some medications
Symptoms
1. Weight loss
2. Increased appetite
3. Rapid heartbeat
4. Recurrent bowel movement
5. Fatigue
6. Nervousness
7. Problems in sleeping
8. Swelling in the neck (Goiter – enlarged thyroid glands)
9. Uncontrolled sweating
10. Changes in vision
11. Muscle Weakness
Diagnosis
- Blood test - The levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), T3 and T4 in blood are checked. This is called thyroid functioning test. The low levels of TSH and high levels of T3 and T4 indicate the disorder.
- Thyroid scan and ultrasound - To check for the lumps present in the thyroid gland
Treatment
- Antithyroid medications – Methimazole (inhibit the overproduction of thyroid hormones)
- Beta-blockers – To reduce the symptoms of the hyperthyroidism
- Radioactive iodine – Radiotherapy method to demolish the cells in the thyroid gland
- Surgery – Removal of thyroid gland
References
Written By Healthgrades Editorial Staff Updated on May 27. (2022, May 29). Endocrine disorders: Types, causes, treatments. Healthgrades. Retrieved January 15, 2023, from https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/endocrinology-and-metabolism/endocrine-disorders
NHS website. (2021a, November 18). Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). nhs.uk. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/overactive-thyroid-hyperthyroidism
