The thyroid gland is a small gland that plays an important role in controlling metabolism and the body’s overall growth and development. Hyperthyroidism refers to a condition wherein the thyroid gland produces too much T3 or T4 (thyroid hormones). Thus, this condition speeds up the metabolism processes. In order to seek treatment for this condition, it is important to be able to recognize the causes, symptoms, and types of thyroid disease.

When it comes to understanding the causes, symptoms, and types of thyroid disease, the first step is to know the factors that may trigger this condition. Hyperthyroidism can be caused by many factors and the most common amongst them include:

• Grave’s Disease
  This is an autoimmune condition that makes antibodies stimulate the thyroid gland in producing excessive thyroid hormones. This is genetic and more common amongst women. Left untreated, this condition can become worse and have life-threatening complications.
• Excessive Iodine consumption
  Consumption of iodine rich foods can cause the development of hyperthyroidism. This is because iodine is a key ingredient of the T3 and T4 hormones.
• Thyroiditis
  This condition causes inflammation in the thyroid gland. As a result, it allows T3 and T4 hormones to leak out of the gland.
• Tumors
  Tumors in the ovaries or testes can also cause hyperthyroidism. Even benign tumors that develop in the thyroid or pituitary gland can cause this condition.

Amongst the causes, and types of thyroid disease, it is only when the signs and symptoms of this disease are recognized that you can seek early treatment. It is not important for a patient to show all the signs of hyperthyroidism. The intensity of symptoms depends on how long the thyroid gland has been overactive and the patient’s age. Some of the visible signs you may notice include

• Increase in appetite
• Restlessness
• Hand tremors
• High blood pressure
• High blood sugar levels
• Rapid heartbeat and heart palpitations
• Low heat tolerance and increase in the amount a person sweats
• Unexplained weight loss- some people may experience weight gain as well
• Frequent bowel movement and diarrhea
• Irregular menstrual cycles- periods may be light or skipped
• Hair loss and breakage
• Nervousness
• Inability to concentrate
• Development of breast tissue in men
• Protruding eyes
• Low cholesterol levels
• Enlarged thyroid gland
• Difficulty with fertility

Some of these symptoms may come on slowly while others can be more sudden and visually apparent. If you experience any symptoms, you must consult a doctor immediately. In some cases, not understanding thyroid disease causes, symptoms, and types can be fatal. For example, Hyperthyroidism can also trigger atrial fibrillation. This is an arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat that can cause a stroke or congestive heart failure.

Hyperthyroidism is treatable as long as one consults a doctor in the early stages of the condition. Thus, it is important for everyone to know the causes, symptoms, and types of thyroid disease to prevent the worsening of the condition. Once identified and diagnosed, the endocrinologist can treat the condition with effective treatment procedures.