Hyperthyroidism
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland just below the Adam's apple. It is the largest gland in the neck. The thyroid gland has a very large effect on the way your body functions. Its sole function is the production of the thyroid hormone which controls the body's energy level (metabolism). When your thyroid is healthy, your metabolism stays at a steady pace, neither too fast nor too slow. The pituitary gland, a peanut sized gland at the base of the brain, controls how much hormone the thyroid produces. Troubles with the thyroid gland can interfere with many aspects of life. Thankfully these problems are often easy to treat. Even most forms of thyroid cancer are treatable.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is "Graves' disease", a problem where the body's immune system overstimulates the thyroid. Graves' disease may also cause eye problems that make the eyes look like they are bulging (exopthalmos). A nodule in the thyroid gland can also cause hyperthyroidism if the cells in the nodule produce more hormone than the rest in the gland. The following are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism:
- Nervousness, jitters, shaking
- Irritability
- A rapid, irregular heartbeat
- Feeling hot
- Muscle weakness, fatigue
- More frequent bowel movements
- Shorter or lighter menstrual periods
- Hair loss
- Weight loss
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