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Hyperthyroidism: How does it affect your body in the long run?

Hyperthyroidism can lead to a variety of symptoms and affect several systems in the body, including the cardiovascular, digestive, and reproductive systems. If left untreated, it can lead to several long-term effects such as osteoporosis, eye problems, and heart disease by mabelbriggs
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Hyperthyroidism: How does it affect your body in the long run? Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that affects the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy level, and other bodily functions.

When the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, it causes hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism can occur due to several reasons such as Graves’ disease, toxic nodular goiter, and thyroiditis.

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:.

  • Increased heart rate
  • Tremors
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Weight loss
  • Increased appetite
  • Bowel problems such as diarrhea
  • Heat intolerance
  • Sweating
  • Anxiety
  • Weakness
  • Irregular menstrual periods

Effects of Hyperthyroidism on the Body

Hyperthyroidism can affect several systems in the body, including the cardiovascular system, digestive system, and reproductive system. Here is how it can affect these systems:.

Cardiovascular System

Hyperthyroidism can increase the heart rate, leading to an irregular heartbeat and palpitations. It can also lead to an increase in blood pressure, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Moreover, it can cause the heart muscles to weaken over time, leading to heart failure.

Digestive System

Hyperthyroidism can cause diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and loss of nutrients. It can also lead to an increase in appetite and subsequent weight loss, making it difficult to absorb nutrients from food.

It can also lead to liver dysfunction, which can affect the body’s ability to process medications efficiently.

Reproductive System

Hyperthyroidism can affect the menstrual cycle, leading to irregular periods and reduced fertility. It can also lead to complications during pregnancy such as pre-eclampsia and premature birth.

Long-term Effects of Hyperthyroidism

If left untreated, hyperthyroidism can lead to several long-term effects on the body. Here is a closer look at some of the effects:.

Osteoporosis

Hyperthyroidism can cause bone loss, leading to an increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis.

This is because an excess of thyroid hormone can impair the body’s ability to absorb and utilize calcium, a crucial mineral for supporting bone health. This is especially true in women during and after menopause when hormone changes increase their risk of osteoporosis.

Eye problems

Hyperthyroidism can cause the muscles behind the eyes to swell and cause the eyes to appear protruded. It can lead to vision problems such as double vision, blurry vision, and light sensitivity. This condition is known as Graves’ ophthalmopathy.

Thyroid storm

In some cases, hyperthyroidism can lead to a life-threatening complication known as thyroid storm. Thyroid storm is a rare condition caused by sudden, severe worsening of hyperthyroidism, leading to high fever, rapid heartbeat, confusion, and shock.

Related Article The long-term consequences of having an overactive thyroid gland The long-term consequences of having an overactive thyroid gland

Heart disease

Hyperthyroidism can increase the risk of heart disease over time, leading to an increased risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. The increase in heart rate can put a strain on the heart muscles, which can weaken them over time.

Moreover, high blood pressure can put a strain on the arteries and lead to arterial damage, further increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Brain function

Hyperthyroidism can affect learning, concentration, and memory. It can cause irritability, restlessness, and anxiety, which can affect cognitive function. It can also cause depression, which can affect mood and cognitive function.

Thyroid cancer

Although rare, untreated hyperthyroidism can increase the risk of thyroid cancer. This is because the excess thyroid hormone can cause the thyroid gland cells to grow and multiply uncontrollably, leading to the formation of nodules or tumors.

Treatment of Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism can be treated using several methods such as medication, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgery. The primary goal of treatment is to reduce the production of thyroid hormone and restore normal thyroid function.

Medication

Anti-thyroid medication is the primary treatment for hyperthyroidism. Medication such as Methimazole, Carbimazole, and Propylthiouracil can help to reduce thyroid hormone production and restore normal thyroid function.

They work by blocking the enzymes responsible for the production of thyroid hormone.

Radioactive Iodine Therapy

Radioactive iodine therapy is another treatment option for hyperthyroidism. It involves the administration of radioactive iodine, which is taken up by the thyroid gland and destroys the cells that produce thyroid hormone.

This treatment is usually performed as an outpatient procedure and may require multiple treatments to achieve the desired results.

Surgery

In rare cases, surgery may be required to treat hyperthyroidism. Surgery involves the removal of all or a part of the thyroid gland.

This is usually done if medication and radioactive iodine therapy are not effective or if there is a risk of thyroid cancer.

Conclusion

Hyperthyroidism can lead to a variety of symptoms and affect several systems in the body, including the cardiovascular system, digestive system, and reproductive system.

If left untreated, it can lead to several long-term effects such as osteoporosis, heart disease, and brain dysfunction. Treatment of hyperthyroidism involves medications, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgery, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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