Signs and Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
Know all about hyperthyroidism, causes, symptoms, and how it affects your health. Learn about the tips to manage hyperthyroidism at home.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. Md Yusuf Shareef MBBS
Last updated on 20th Aug, 2025
Introduction
Hyperthyroidism is a condition where your thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, speeding up your body's metabolism. While it can affect anyone, it’s more common in women and people over 60. Recognizing the signs early can help in managing the condition effectively.
In this article, we’ll discuss the common symptoms, causes, and ways to manage hyperthyroidism in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
What is Hyperthyroidism?
Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that controls metabolism—how your body uses energy. When it becomes overactive and produces excess hormones (thyroxine or T4 and triiodothyronine or T3), it leads to hyperthyroidism. This can cause various physical and emotional changes.
Consult endocrinologist for Personalised Advice
Common Signs and Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism affects different people in different ways. Some may experience mild symptoms, while others may have more severe effects. Here are the most common signs to watch out for:
1. Unexplained Weight Loss
- Losing weight despite eating normally or even more than usual.
- Increased appetite but no weight gain.
2. Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat (Palpitations)
- Feeling like your heart is racing, pounding, or skipping beats.
- Increased blood pressure.
3. Excessive Sweating and Heat Intolerance
- Feeling unusually hot even in normal temperatures.
- Excessive sweating without physical activity.
4. Nervousness, Anxiety, and Irritability
- Feeling restless, anxious, or moody without reason.
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping.
5. Fatigue and Muscle Weakness
- Feeling tired despite adequate rest.
- Weakness in muscles, especially in the arms and thighs.
6. Tremors (Shaky Hands)
- Fine tremors in the hands and fingers.
7. Changes in Bowel Movements
- Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea.
8. Swelling in the Neck (Goiter)
- Enlargement of the thyroid gland, visible as a bulge in the neck.
9. Changes in Menstrual Cycle (for Women)
- Lighter or missed periods.
10. Thinning Hair and Brittle Nails
- Hair loss or dry, fragile nails.
11. Eye Problems (Graves’ Ophthalmopathy)
- Bulging eyes, redness, irritation, or double vision (common in Graves’ disease).
If you notice any of these symptoms persistently, it’s best to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis.
What Causes Hyperthyroidism?
Several conditions can lead to an overactive thyroid:
1. Graves’ Disease – The most common cause, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid.
2. Thyroid Nodules – Lumps in the thyroid that produce excess hormones.
3. Thyroiditis – Inflammation of the thyroid, causing temporary hormone leakage.
4. Excessive Iodine Intake – Too much iodine (from diet or medications) can trigger hyperthyroidism.
5. Medications – Some drugs (like amiodarone) can affect thyroid function.
How Does Hyperthyroidism Affect Your Health?
If left untreated, hyperthyroidism can lead to serious complications, including:
- Heart problems (irregular heartbeat, heart failure).
- Bone loss (osteoporosis) due to excessive calcium removal.
- Thyroid storm (a rare but life-threatening condition with severe symptoms like fever, rapid pulse, and confusion).
- Eye and skin problems (in Graves’ disease).
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent these complications.
Tips for Managing Hyperthyroidism
While medical treatment is essential, lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms:
1. Eat a Balanced Diet
- Foods to include: Calcium-rich foods (milk, yogurt, leafy greens), vitamin D (eggs, fish), and lean proteins.
- Foods to avoid: Excessive iodine (seaweed, iodized salt), caffeine, and alcohol.
2. Manage Stress
- Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
3. Exercise Moderately
- Light exercises (walking, swimming) help with energy levels, but avoid overexertion.
4. Protect Your Eyes (if affected by Graves’ disease)
- Use lubricating eye drops, wear sunglasses, and sleep with your head elevated.
5. Regular Medical Check-ups
- - Follow your doctor’s advice and monitor thyroid levels regularly.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience persistent symptoms like rapid weight loss, palpitations, or extreme fatigue, consult a doctor. Early diagnosis through blood tests (TSH, T3, T4 levels) can help in effective treatment.
Final Thoughts
Hyperthyroidism is manageable with the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking medical help can make a big difference in your health and well-being.
Consult endocrinologist for Personalised Advice
Consult endocrinologist for Personalised Advice
Dr. Nithin Reddy Modhugu
Endocrinologist
6 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Endocrinology)
Hyderabad
Dr. Nithin's Endocrine Clinic, Hyderabad
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Gayatri S
Endocrinologist
4 Years • Suggested Qualifictaion- MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), DM (ENDOCRINOLOGY)
Nellore
Narayana hospital, Nellore
Dr. Anand Ravi
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Shrikrishna V Acharya
Endocrinologist
25 Years • MBBS, MD, DM(Endocrinology), MRCP (Endocrinology)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
(125+ Patients)
Consult endocrinologist for Personalised Advice
Dr. Nithin Reddy Modhugu
Endocrinologist
6 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DNB (Endocrinology)
Hyderabad
Dr. Nithin's Endocrine Clinic, Hyderabad
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Gayatri S
Endocrinologist
4 Years • Suggested Qualifictaion- MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), DM (ENDOCRINOLOGY)
Nellore
Narayana hospital, Nellore
Dr. Anand Ravi
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Shrikrishna V Acharya
Endocrinologist
25 Years • MBBS, MD, DM(Endocrinology), MRCP (Endocrinology)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
(125+ Patients)