• Symptoms
A hyperthyroidism puts all the functions of the body in force: heart palpitations, loss of weight while the appetite is present, irritability, insomnia, diarrhea, hot flashes … To these signs, can be added a goiter and a protrusion of the eyes. These symptoms are often hidden behind Graves’ disease: antibodies attach themselves to the gland and stimulate the release of hormones. The presence of nodules on the thyroid is another common cause of hyperthyroidism, especially after the age of 60: by secreting hormones, they disrupt the proper functioning of the gland.
• Exams
A blood test is required, looking for the hormones T3, T4 and TSH. If T3 and T4 are high and TSH low, hyperthyroidism is confirmed. At the same time, an ultrasound will show the presence of nodules.
• The treatment
It consists in calming the over-diet of the gland by proposing a drug that blocks the production of hormones, such as carbimazole, thiamazol or propylthiouracil. “This is all the more important as, in the long term, hyperthyroidism can lead to cardiovascular risks.“, underlines Dr. Borys. At the beginning of the treatment, a blood test is necessary every month in order to determine the good dosage and to avoid switching to hypothyroidism.” In twelve to eighteen months, the thyroid recovers very often to function normally, to the point that it is possible to stop taking the drug, assures Dr. Moreau. At the same time, it is advisable to avoid, as much as possible, imaging examinations such as an injection scan or angiography, which require taking iodine. This massive dose risks, in fact, worsening the disease. “
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