Hyperthyroidism: Because Your Thyroid Just Can’t Chill

When the thyroid gland — a small yet powerful organ in the front of your neck — falls out of sync, it can throw your metabolism into a whirlwind. An overactive thyroid can lead to irritability, trembling hands, excessive sweating, weight loss and more. According to several studies, 42 million people in India are estimated to have thyroid issues. The five thyroid diseases that are common in India include goitre, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Imagine your thyroid as the body’s thermostat, carefully regulating functions like metabolism and heart rate. When you have hyperthyroidism, it’s as if the thermostat is stuck on high, causing your thyroid to release excess hormones. This sends everything into overdrive, leaving you with a racing heart, unexplained weight loss, and a constant feeling of being overheated.

Here’s a closer look at the main culprits behind hyperthyroidism:

• Graves’ disease (The usual suspect): This autoimmune disorder is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. It messes with your immune system, causing it to mistakenly attack the thyroid, which leads to an overproduction of thyroid hormones.
• Medication-induced hyperthyroidism (The unexpected side effect): Some medications, especially those with excessive iodine, can push your thyroid into overdrive, causing an unintentional spike in hormone levels.
• Thyroid lumps (The rogue): Non-cancerous lumps in the thyroid can sometimes start producing excess hormones, leading to hyperthyroidism.
• Transient thyroiditis (The short-term troublemaker): This condition happens when the thyroid leaks stored hormones, causing a temporary increase in hormone levels.
• Rare causes: There are also some rare cases where hyperthyroidism is caused by conditions like a pituitary tumour that secretes too much TSH (thyrotropinoma) or excess thyroid tissue in the ovaries (struma ovarii). Though less common, these can still lead to high thyroid hormone levels. 

“Hyperthyroidism can make you feel in an overdrive state, with your thyroid gland acting as the lead foot on the accelerator. Addressing it early can help you regain control and restore harmony to your health,” says Dr Sudhir Tripathi, MD Endocrinologist, Delhi. You might notice several changes, some of which can be somewhat surprising:

• Ravenous hunger: With a faster metabolism, your body burns through energy quickly, leaving you constantly hungry and unable to feel satisfied, no matter how much you eat.
• Disrupted sleep: Hyperthyroidism can cause insomnia or restless nights, leading to daytime fatigue, irritability, and difficulty focusing.
• Unexpected weight loss: Even if you're eating normally, hyperthyroidism can cause rapid and unexplained weight loss due to the accelerated metabolism.
• Frequent trips to the restroom: As your body’s metabolism speed up, it may lead to increased bathroom visits, a common sign of hyperthyroidism.
• Profuse sweating: An overactive thyroid can raise your body’s temperature, resulting in excessive sweating, even when you're not exerting yourself.
• Increased heat sensitivity: You may find yourself feeling unusually warm, even when the weather is cool or comfortable for others.
• Protruding eyes: Swelling behind the eyes can cause them to push forward, giving a distinctive, bulging appearance that’s often linked with hyperthyroidism.
• Shivering and uneasiness: Tremours, feelings of anxiety, panic attacks, or general restlessness are common symptoms, making it hard to relax or stay calm.

Lifestyle factors such as sleep, smoking, diet, and exercise play a significant role in thyroid function, particularly in maintaining thyroid homeostasis. Poor sleep patterns, smoking, and an unbalanced diet can negatively affect thyroid health, potentially leading to hormone imbalances. 

• Regular health check-ups
  Routine blood tests to assess thyroid hormone levels can help identify any abnormalities early, enabling timely intervention and better management of thyroid health.
• Manage stress
  Chronic stress can strain your immune system and exacerbate thyroid problems, including hyperthyroidism. Incorporating stress-reducing practices such as yoga, meditation, taking personal time, or spending quality moments with loved ones can help keep your thyroid and overall well-being in balance.
• Manage iodine intake
  Iodine is vital for thyroid function, but too much can cause issues. Be cautious with iodine supplements or medications and focus on maintaining a balanced diet that supports thyroid health without excess.
• Avoid unnecessary medications
  If you’re prescribed thyroid medication, follow your doctor’s guidelines carefully. Overusing or misusing thyroid meds can disrupt your thyroid balance and worsen hyperthyroidism symptoms.
• Get enough sleep
  Quality sleep is essential for maintaining thyroid health. Poor sleep patterns can disrupt hormone regulation, including thyroid hormones. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night.
• Regular physical activity
  Exercise plays a crucial role in balancing thyroid hormones. Regular physical activity can improve energy levels, reduce stress, and support a healthy metabolism, all of which benefit thyroid health.

Hyperthyroidism involves a small gland with significant effects. Understanding its causes, recognising symptoms, and taking proactive preventive measures can make a significant difference. Remember, your thyroid is crucial for your overall health. Stay vigilant and take proactive steps to keep this tiny gland functioning well.

While medication or surgery can manage hyperthyroidism symptoms and help restore thyroid balance, a cure depends on the underlying cause and how the individual responds to treatment.

Yes, seafood such as shrimp, lobster, and fish like tuna and cod are high in iodine and should be avoided or limited.

Up to 10 times more women than men experience hyperthyroidism due to hormonal differences and autoimmune factors.

Yes, diet can impact hyperthyroidism by influencing thyroid hormone levels and overall symptom management. A balanced diet can help support overall health and can mitigate some hyperthyroidism symptoms.

With hyperthyroidism, avoid stimulants like caffeine and alcohol. Apart from food restrictions, it is crucial to avoid excessive stress and intense physical activity. Also, avoid over-the-counter supplements or medications without consulting your doctor, as they might interfere with your treatment.