Hyperthyroidism: the most effective dietary supplements

Hyperthyroidism is an endocrine disorder characterized by excessive production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. The hormones primarily involved are triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Overproduction leads to an acceleration of basal metabolism, which affects various body systems.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of hyperthyroidism is based on several clinical and paraclinical elements. Clinical Patients often complain of symptoms such as nervousness, weight loss, tremors, diarrhea, and tachycardia. Clinical examination may reveal an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter) and, in some cases, eyes that appear abnormally protruding (exophthalmos) related to Graves disease. Laboratory tests • Thyroid hormone assays : Increased levels of free T3 and free T4. • TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) assay : Generally, TSH levels are low in peripheral hyperthyroidism (the thyroid gland is overactive), but can be elevated in the case of a TSH-secreting pituitary adenoma. • Antithyroid antibodies : Presence of TSH receptor antibodies in Graves disease. Imaging • Thyroid ultrasound : Used to assess the structure of the thyroid gland and detect nodules. • Thyroid scintigraphy : Allows visualization of thyroid activity and helps distinguish the different causes of hyperthyroidism.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hyperthyroidism are varied and may include: • Tachycardia • Significant weight loss • Diarrhea • Nervousness and irritability • Tremors • Heat intolerance • Fatigue and asthenia • Goiter and exophthalmos in cases of Graves disease In elderly people, manifestations may be less obvious, with predominant cardiac symptoms such as palpitations or heart failure.

Causes

The main causes of hyperthyroidism are: • Graves disease : An autoimmune disease in which antibodies overstimulate the thyroid. • Autonomous thyroid nodules : Nodules that independently secrete thyroid hormones. • Thyroiditis : Inflammation of the thyroid of infectious or other origin, causing short-term hyperthyroidism. • Excess iodine : Causes thyroid overactivity, often related to the use of certain drugs such as amiodarone. • Pituitary adenoma : Pituitary tumor that secretes excess TSH. • Excessive ingestion of thyroid hormones : Either intentionally for weight loss, or due to medication overdose.

Treatment

Treatment of hyperthyroidism may include: • Antithyroid drugs : Medications such as methimazole or propylthiouracil that inhibit thyroid hormone production. • Radioactive iodine : Used to destroy part of the thyroid gland. • Surgery : Partial or total thyroidectomy in cases resistant to medical treatment or in the presence of large nodules. • Beta-blockers : Used to control cardiovascular symptoms. • Associated measures : Time off work, anxiolytics if needed, and effective contraception for women treated with antithyroid drugs.