This article explores how a GP can diagnose and treat hyperthyroidism. Read on to find out more!

What is hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that affects the body's thyroid gland and can cause an overwhelming amount of thyroxine, which is a hormone produced by the gland. The thyroid secretes thyroxine, which controls other hormones in your body, producing them at the same rate as normal. Hyperthyroidism is not usually life-threatening, but its symptoms can be severe enough to make it difficult to function normally.

What does hyperthyroidism look like?

If you have hyperthyroidism, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Sleep issues
• Tiredness
• Fast heart rate
• Weight loss
• Changes in mood
• Swelling in your neck

How is hyperthyroidism diagnosed by a GP?

GPs typically diagnose hyperthyroidism through a clinical history of your condition and a simple blood test. A blood test measures the amount of thyroxine in your body. Your GP will check that the concentration is above that which is normally found in someone around the same age, sex, weight and height as you are. Your doctor may also perform a physical exam to feel for any swelling in the neck.

How is hyperthyroidism treated?

Tapazole is an antithyroid medication that blocks the production of thyroxine in your thyroid gland. This medication is taken orally every day, but symptoms may still occur after you start taking this drug. Your doctor may give you beta-blockers to slow down your heart rate if it's beating abnormally fast. Surgery may also be used to treat hyperthyroidism if symptoms begin worsening or do not get better with other treatments, or if they become unmanageable for an extended time.

Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes to help you to manage the condition. People with thyroid disease will benefit from lifestyle changes that help them avoid triggers of symptoms, such as fever and stress. Stress management techniques can be very helpful for people with thyroid disease. Stress, after all, is the body's way of responding to a problem or perceived threat.

How soon after treatment does a person return to normal?

People will recover from thyroid disease in different ways and at different rates. This is due to many factors such as age, menopause status and overall health of the patient. After treatment, many people will experience significant improvement in their health.

If you would like to find out more, you should contact your doctor today. They will be happy to invite you in for a consultation and evaluation of your symptoms. Reach out to a doctor in your area to learn more.