What is hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)?
The most common cause of an overactive thyroid gland is an auto-immune condition known as Graves’ Disease. In people with this disease the immune system produces antibodies which overstimulate the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland then produces excess thyroid hormones, which can cause a range of symptoms. There is often a hereditary factor in Graves’ Disease and females are much more likely to develop the disease than men. Graves’ Disease is most common in women between the ages of 20 and 40 years. Hashimoto’s Disease is another auto-immune disease, which in the early stages produces symptoms similar to those seen in Graves’ Disease. What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism? The symptoms may develop slowly over a few months until it becomes clear that there is a problem. Symptoms include weight loss despite an increased appetite, nervousness, tremor, restlessness, palpitations and increased sweating. The eyes start to look larger and may bulge so that the person appears to be staring. T
