Treatment for Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland secretes too much hormone into the bloodstream. If left untreated, this condition can worsen and lead to health issues elsewhere in the body.

The thyroid gland secretes two hormones: T3 and T4. Both function to control the metabolism of body cells. We all know about metabolism. It either keeps that stubborn weight on us (if it’s slow) or keeps us from holding onto those precious pounds (if it is too fast). There is a feedback system in the body that helps the thyroid to know when to secrete and when to stop.

With hyperthyroidism, there is something wrong with this system. The thyroid is producing hormones in too large a quantity to be useful in the body. The body reacts with symptoms like tremors, bowel issues, rapid heartbeat, hot flashes, muscle weakness and weight loss.

But, there are treatment options for those who suffer from hyperthyroidism. The first step is to diagnose the condition. A blood test can be done to measure the levels of TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). This is the substance secreted by the pituitary to encourage production of thyroid hormones.

Lower than normal levels indicate that there is something amiss. The one exception to this rule is if there is a tumor present in the pituitary. Then the TSH levels would be higher than normal.

Even the blood test doesn’t confirm the cause of the symptoms. It is important to know the cause to define the course of treatment. A thyroid scan is then conducted to see exactly where the problem is concentrated in the thyroid. Using radio-labeled iodine, the scan can pinpoint if the hyperthyroidism is caused by Graves’ disease, a hyperactive nodule or thyroiditis.

Usually the first course of action is medication. If the condition can be treated with drugs, then further steps like surgery may not be warranted. Beta-blockers (Lopressor, atenolol) are used to treat some of the symptoms of the condition. Your level of thyroid hormone doesn’t change but you are better able to deal with the effects.

Anti-thyroid drugs are used to inhibit the secretion of thyroid hormone. They block the hormones from passing out of the gland. Different doses are given to find the one that will not totally block the hormone but allow for normal functioning. This treatment is often used for those with Graves’ disease.

Surgery is another option for hyperthyroid sufferers. In the surgical procedure, a portion of the thyroid is removed to reduce hormone production. If a certain portion of the gland was shown on the scan to have produced excessive hormone that is the portion that is removed.

If you have been diagnosed with hyperthyroidism there are choices for treatment. Discuss them all with your doctor to discover the best way to proceed.

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