Hyperthyroidism: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Hyperthyroidism is an endocrine disorder characterized by an excessive production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. The hormones mainly involved are triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Overproduction leads to an acceleration of the basal metabolism, affecting 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 enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter) and, in some cases, eyes that appear abnormally protruded (exophthalmos) related to Graves' disease. Biological examinations • Measurement of thyroid hormones: Increased levels of free T3 and free T4. • Measurement of TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): Generally, TSH levels are low in peripheral hyperthyroidism (the thyroid gland is overactive) but may be elevated in cases of pituitary adenoma secreting TSH. • Anti-thyroid antibodies: Presence of anti-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 differentiation between various causes of hyperthyroidism.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hyperthyroidism are varied and may include: • Tachycardia • Significant weight loss • Diarrhea • Nervousness and excitability • Tremors • Heat intolerance • Fatigue and asthenia • Goiter and exophthalmos in the case of Graves' disease In older individuals, manifestations may be less evident, with predominant cardiac symptoms such as palpitations or heart failure.

Etiologies

The main causes of hyperthyroidism are: • Graves' disease: An autoimmune disease where antibodies excessively stimulate the thyroid. • Autonomous thyroid nodules: Nodules that secrete thyroid hormones independently. • Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid of infectious or other nature, causing hyperthyroidism for a short period of time. • Excess iodine: Causes hyperactivity of the thyroid, often related to the use of certain medications like amiodarone. • Pituitary adenoma: A tumor of the pituitary gland secreting excess TSH. • Excessive ingestion of thyroid hormones: Either intentionally for weight loss or due to medication overdose.

Treatment

The treatment of hyperthyroidism may include: • Synthetic antithyroid drugs: Medications such as methimazole or propylthiouracil that inhibit the production of thyroid hormones. • Radioactive iodine: Used to destroy part of the thyroid gland. • Surgery: Partial or total thyroidectomy in cases resistant to medication or in the presence of large nodules. • Beta-blockers: Used to control cardiovascular symptoms. • Associated measures: Work cessation, anxiolytics if needed, and effective contraception for women undergoing treatment with synthetic antithyroid drugs.