The thyroid gland present in the front of your neck is the largest gland. Referred to as overactive thyroid, hyperthyroidism happens when the thyroid gland starts to produce and secrete excessive amount of free thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine and thyroxine. This is just the opposite of sluggish thyroid or hypothyroidism, which refers to the reduced production and secretion of hormones.
[Read: An Expert Take on what is Hyperthyroidism]
The only purpose of the thyroid gland is to secrete hormones, which affects almost all the tissues of the body by increasing their cellular activity. In healthy people, the thyroid makes the right amount of the two hormones T4 and T3 that are very important for the body. These hormones have an important task of regulating our tissues. To encapsulate, these hormones run the metabolism of the body. More importantly, these hormones have an impact on the beating of the heart as they increase the rate of beating.
Anything in excess is not good. Here are some symptoms that can be found in women affected by hyperthyroidism:
Menstrual Changes – as mentioned earlier, the thyroid glands are responsible for the metabolism of your body. When a woman suffers from hyperthyroidism, her metabolism slows down. The symptoms usually develop very slowly. The menstrual flow may increase over several years. Excessive menstrual bleeding is a very common symptom in this case.
Pregnancy – When thyroid levels vary and get abnormal, they can cause complications during pregnancy. Hyperthyroidism has been linked to things, such as lower birth rates, premature birth and still births. When your pregnancy gets complicated, it may mean that you have hyperthyroidism.
[Read: About the Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism during Pregnancy]
Some other very common symptoms among women are listed as below:
- Feeling weak and tired is common when suffering from hyperthyroidism.
- A person suffering from hyperthyroidism suffers from mental instability, nervousness, mood swings, irritability and depression.
- Trembling or shaky hands.
- Heartbeat becomes fast and the chest usually starts hurting.
- Skin irritability and itching.
- The person may easily get hungry and an increase in appetite is also commonly found.
[Read: The Treatment Options for Hyperthyroidism]
There may be treatment for the same, such as the use of anti-hyperthyroidism drugs that prevent the thyroid gland from secreting excess hormones. Radioactive iodine may also be taken orally by way of which it gets absorbed by the gland gradually reducing the symptoms within three to six months. If the symptom/s persists and hyperthyroidism doesn’t reduce, the gland will have to be removed with surgical methods. The thyroid hormone supply needs to be filled with the help of medications that need to be taken for a lifetime. Always consult a doctor for proper medical attention.
Read more on Hyperthyroidism Signs and Symptoms
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