What Are the Causes of Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism happens when your thyroid produces too much hormones. Thyroid is a small but important gland located in your neck. This problem with it can make you uncomfortable in many ways. In fact, your appetite may increase, you get nervous and restless for no reason, and you couldn’t sleep at night. If you find yourself with these symptoms, you may get alert and try to find out reasons.

Hyperthyroidism, hormones and thyroid
You may get nervous and restless.

What is thyroid?

This gland is located at the base of the neck, below the Adam’s apple. It’s shaped like a butterfly. It is small but plays a vital role in your body. Every aspect of your metabolism is controlled by the hormones it secretes.

Hyperthyroidism, hormones and thyroid
Picture of the gland

How does thyroid and the hormones work?

Despite its small size, the gland secretes two types of hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). They together affect every cell in the body by controlling the way cells consume energy. That is to say, these hormones help manage your temperature, heart rate and how fast your body consumes carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Besides, the gland can secrete a hormone called calcitonin which helps regulate the amount of calcium in your blood.

Hyperthyroidism, hormones and thyroid
How thyroid hormones work.

What causes hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid makes too much T4, T3, or both. Hyperthyroidism is usually a problem brought by other disease. For example, Grave’s disease (an autoimmune disorder), Plummer’s disease (toxic multinodular goiter), toxic adenoma and thyroiditis all can lead to this problem. 

In addition, other causes of hyperthyroidism include:

  • excess iodine, a key ingredient in T4 and T3
  • inflammation of the thyroid, which causes T4 and T3 to leak out of the gland
  • tumors of the ovaries
  • benign tumors of the thyroid or pituitary gland
  • large amounts of tetraiodothyronine taken through food or medication

If you feel dizzy at times, have shortness of breath and irregular heart rate, you stand the risk of getting hyperthyroidism. If so, go to your doctor for help. It is vital that you get timely treatment for your condition.

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* The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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