What is the thyroid gland?

This butterfly-shaped endocrine gland sits at the front of the throat, directly below the Adam’s apple. It is responsible for producing thyroid hormones, and plays an important role in regulating the body’s metabolic balance. This runs the gamut, from heart rate, body temperature, and bowel movements, to anxiety levels, memory, and focus.

What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism?

If you are suffering from hyperthyroidism, you might feel hot, anxious or shaky, have difficulties sleeping, or experience palpitations or weight loss.

What causes hyperthyroidism?

The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is an autoimmune condition called Graves’ disease. With this condition, the body produces antibodies targeting the thyroid gland, stimulating it to produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism can also be caused by multinodular goitre or inflammation of the thyroid gland, or a due to a toxic singular nodule.

How do I treat hyperthyroidism?

The most common treatment for an overactive thyroid is Carbimazole, a medication that halts the production of thyroid hormones. Your doctor might also start you on beta blockers. This will help control the symptoms of an overactive thyroid, although it does not treat the overproduction of thyroid hormones itself. Graves’ disease is often treated for a period of 18 months before medication is ceased. In around 30-40% of patients, the disease can be expected to settle down within this timeframe. If it does not, or the disease comes back, treatment such as radioactive iodine or surgical removal of thyroid gland may be considered.

When should I see an endocrinologist?

When you are diagnosed with overactive thyroid, your care is best led by an endocrinologist. They can help to monitor your treatment, recommend further investigations as required, and in discussion with you, decide when it is safe to stop your medication or whether to consider different treatment options.