Hyperthyroidism

Thyroid UK estimates that 1 in 50 women and 1 in 1000 men are affected by Hyperthyroidism.

What is Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism or an 'overactive thyroid' is a relatively common hormonal condition that occurs when there is too much thyroid hormone in the body.

The condition is ten times more common in women than in men and usually occurs over the age of 40. Because some of the symptoms are very similar to those of the menopause, hyperthyroidism can often go undetected in older women.

Symptoms

Excess levels of thyroid hormones can then speed up the body’s metabolism triggering a range of symptoms.

These may include:

• Unexplained or unplanned weight loss
• Nervousness and anxiety
• Depression
• Water retention
• Palpitations
• Dry skin,
• Slow thinking
• Hyperactivity
• Swelling of the thyroid gland

The severity, frequency and range of symptoms can vary from person to person.

Causes and Treatment

Hypothyroidism is caused by reduced activity of the thyroid gland, either by being damaged or “worn out”.

Once the gland is affected it does not produce enough of the hormone thyroxine, also called T4. Treatment is usually 100% effective and consists of daily thyroid hormone medicine to redress the balance. 

The thyroid becomes more effective in the summer so even if the symptoms weaken they may come back later in the year.

In pregnant Women/New Mothers

Hypothyroidism can occur in pregnancy, when women develop antibodies to their own thyroid and causing an inflammation of the thyroid after delivery.

Post partum hypothyroidism affects 10% of pregnant women and tends to develop between 4 - 12 months after delivery.

The thyroid usually balances itself naturally without medication, but there is evidence that half of women with this condition will develop permanent hypothyroidism within 7 years.

Undetected Hypothyroidism

Early detection of hypothyroidism can save further health complications in later life and improve your lifestyle.

If it is not treated, hypothyroidism can cause a goitre (a large bulge in the neck), infertility, depression and mental health problems, breathing problems, inability to maintain normal body temperature and heart problems.

Test for Hypothyroidism

myrios is the first vital step on your care pathway as it is an over the counter testing kit that gives you access from your own home to professional laboratory analysis and reports.

myrios testing kits can be purchased online from as little as £23.50 by clicking here.