Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism develops when the thyroid gland overproduces T4 and T3 hormones, accelerating metabolism and triggering symptoms such as weight loss, tachycardia, heat intolerance, and anxiety. Graves’ disease is the most common cause, although toxic multinodular goiter, thyroiditis, and excess iodine intake can also precipitate the condition. Diagnosis centers on suppressed serum TSH with elevated free thyroid hormone levels, confirmed through immunoglobulin assays or radioactive iodine uptake scans. Treatment options include antithyroid medications like methimazole, radioactive iodine ablation, or surgical thyroidectomy tailored to disease severity. Left untreated, hyperthyroidism elevates the risk of atrial fibrillation, osteoporosis, and thyroid storm—a potentially fatal endocrine emergency.