Hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis is a clinical syndrome caused by excessive activity of the thyroid gland and high production of the hormone T3 (thyroxine) and T4 (triiodothyronine). Due to the fact that the blood is supersaturated with thyroid hormones, metabolic processes in the body are accelerated.
Types and signs of hyperthyroidism
Distinguish primary hyperthyroidism (associated with disruption of the thyroid gland), secondary (associated with pathological changes in the pituitary gland) and tertiary (caused by the pathology of the hypothalamus).
Signs of hyperthyroidism , which often occurs in women of young age, are not specific. Patients are observed:
- CNS disorders (insomnia, irritability and tearfulness, panic attacks, fast speech, poor concentration of thought, small-scale tremor);
- disorders of the cardiovascular system (persistent sinus tachycardia, flutter and atrial fibrillation, rapid pulse, elevated upper (systolic) BP with reduced diastolic, heart failure);
- visual impairment (in 45% of cases there is an increase in the eye gap, limitation of the mobility of the eyeball and its forward displacement, a rare flashing, eyelid edema, doubling of objects, stitching in the eyes, tearing);
- metabolic disorders (in patients, weight loss, although the appetite is good, there is sweating, heat intolerance).
Hyperthyroidism of the thyroid gland is characterized by symptoms such as:
- thinning of the skin and hair;
- swelling of the soft tissues of the lower leg;
- development of dyspnea;
- difficulties in climbing stairs, long walking, carrying loads;
- strong thirst for copious urination.
Diagnosis and treatment of hyperthyroidism in women
When diagnosing, the content of hormones T 3 and T 4 (above the norm) and thyroid hormone (TSH - below the norm) are evaluated. To determine the size of the thyroid gland and identify nodes used ultrasound. Localization of nodal formation is determined by means of computed tomography. Functionality of the thyroid gland is assessed using radioisotope scintigraphy.
For the treatment of hyperthyroidism , conservative therapy methods are used (maintenance of hormones is normal with the help of medicines), surgical removal of the thyroid gland or part thereof, as well as radioiodine therapy.