The warning signs of an overactive thyroid

Feeling anxiety, sensitivity to heat, and shakiness are some of the symptoms of an overactive thyroid. Has someone in your family been diagnosed with this condition? You could also be at risk.

In this article, leading consultant endocrinologist, Dr Miles Levy, provides an expert insight into this condition, explaining what exactly is an overactive thyroid, what are the warning signs to watch out for, and if an overactive thyroid can be prevented.

What is an overactive thyroid?

An overactive thyroid, also known as hyperthyroidism, occurs when the thyroid gland, which sits in the neck by the Adams Apple, produces too much thyroid hormone, leading to an increase in the rate of the body’s metabolism. Common symptoms include anxiety, shaking, increase in heart rate, feeling hot and sweaty, reduced sleep, and weight loss, but there are many others. Not everyone experiences all of these symptoms, and sometimes it is picked up by a routine blood test as a surprise finding.

What causes an overactive thyroid gland?

The most common cause of an overactive thyroid is an auto-immune disease, meaning that the body’s immune system produces antibodies that make the thyroid gland work harder. This usually occurs in young women, but it can be seen in men as well as in older people. An overactive thyroid gland can also be caused by benign lumps in the thyroid (called nodules), which can be single or multiple. It may be possible to see or feel an enlarged thyroid gland, because it is instantly recognisable as it moves up and down when swallowing.

What are early warning signs of an overactive thyroid?

The first symptoms usually include: feeling not quite right, hot and sweaty, anxious with a fast heart rate, weight loss despite a normal appetite, and some people experience shaking hands and difficulty falling asleep. With the auto-immune form, patients may notice that their eyes feel gritty and inflamed, and sometimes the eyes will protrude and have a starting appearance. This condition is sometimes called Graves’ disease, because it was first described by a doctor called Robert Graves.

Can I prevent an overactive thyroid?

Not really. If there is a family history or previous history of thyroid disease, then it can be diagnosed early by recognising the symptoms and having a blood test for thyroid function. Sometimes, stress, life events, or viral infections, can trigger an overactive thyroid, but this is not possible to predict or prevent. Certain medication can also cause an overactive thyroid; most commonly amiodarone, which is used for heart conditions. Sometimes pregnancy can trigger an overactive thyroid after delivery.

Does overactive thyroid run in families?

Yes, it does, more often in the female side of the family. It is not a condition where you can predict if someone will get an overactive thyroid, but often, there are family members who have the same problem.

Who is at risk for overactive thyroid?

Patients with a family history of thyroid disease or other auto-immune diseases, such as Type 1 diabetes, coeliac disease, or inflammatory arthritis, are at risk of auto-immune thyroid disease. Patients on amiodarone are at risk of either, an under or an overactive thyroid. Thyroid problems can also occur after pregnancy. Anyone who has unexplained symptoms and doesn’t feel right, should have a thyroid blood test, because an overactive thyroid can present itself with non-classical general symptoms that can be difficult to pin down. It is an easy diagnosis to make with a blood test and also very easy to treat, with tablets in the first instance. 

Dr Miles Levy is a highly experienced consultant endocrinologist based in Leicester, who specialises in various endocrine conditions, including adrenal gland disorders, the thyroid and parathyroid gland, and pituitary tumours. If you’re worried about an overactive thyroid and wish to seek expert advice, make sure to visit his Top Doctors profile today.