What is Thyrotoxicosis?

Thyrotoxicosis is a condition caused by an excess of thyroid hormones in the bloodstream. It results in an overactive metabolism and affects many body systems. It is often caused by hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland produces too much hormone, but can also result from other causes such as thyroid inflammation or hormone overdose.

What Are the Symptoms of Thyrotoxicosis?

Symptoms vary depending on severity but commonly include:

• Rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
• Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite
• Nervousness, anxiety, or irritability
• Tremors (shaking hands)
• Increased sweating and heat intolerance
• Fatigue or muscle weakness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea
• Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
• Bulging eyes (in Graves’ disease)

What Causes Thyrotoxicosis?

Common causes include:

• Graves’ disease (autoimmune hyperthyroidism)
• Toxic multinodular goiter (overactive nodules in thyroid)
• Thyroiditis (inflammation releasing stored hormones)
• Excessive intake of thyroid hormone medication
• Certain tumors producing thyroid hormone

How is Thyrotoxicosis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation and blood tests:

• Measurement of thyroid hormone levels (Free T4 and T3)
• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels (usually low in thyrotoxicosis)
• Thyroid antibody tests (to identify autoimmune causes)
• Radioactive iodine uptake scan to evaluate thyroid activity

How is Thyrotoxicosis Treated?

Treatment depends on the cause and severity:

1. Medications:
   • Antithyroid drugs to reduce hormone production
   • Beta-blockers to control symptoms like rapid heartbeat and tremors
2. Radioactive Iodine Therapy:
   • Used to destroy overactive thyroid tissue
3. Surgery:
   • Partial or total removal of the thyroid gland in certain cases
4. Supportive Care:
   • Managing symptoms such as anxiety and sleep disturbances

Complications of Thyrotoxicosis

If untreated, thyrotoxicosis can cause:

• Heart problems such as arrhythmias or heart failure
• Osteoporosis (weakening of bones)
• Thyroid storm (a life-threatening sudden worsening)
• Muscle weakness and wasting

Living with Thyrotoxicosis

With proper treatment, most people manage the condition well.

Tips for Patients:

• Take medications as prescribed
• Regularly monitor thyroid function with your doctor
• Avoid excessive iodine intake unless advised
• Report any worsening symptoms or side effects promptly