The thyroid is responsible for one’s metabolism. FILE
When I was in medical school, we had a lecturer who was notorious for his volatile mood swings. He was (and still is) a brilliant surgeon but everyone would go out of their way to keep away from him as he was unpredictable and irritable.
Some years later, I met him and he explained that part of his problem was actually related to his thyroid. He explained that he had an over-active thyroid and since he started treatment for this, he is much happier (and so are his students!).
The thyroid is a small butterfly shaped organ at the front of the neck (found near the ‘Adam’s apple’). It releases several hormones which are essentially responsible for your metabolism. If your thyroid is over-active, you will find yourself getting a myriad of problems. These include:
Mood changes
Mood swings can be the most frustrating aspect of an over-active thyroid. Most people report experiencing anxiety, restlessness, nervousness and sometimes even anger and frustration. This usually affects both home and work relationships as one feels they have no control over their emotions.
Sweating and hot flashes
Some people experience increased sensitivity to heat. In these situations, one may sweat excessively even when it is not very hot.
Heart issues
These range from a very fast heart beat to palpitations (being aware of one’s heartbeat). If not attended to, this can lead to heart failure.
Shaky hands
An over-active thyroid can cause muscle weakness and in some people, there can be a fine tremor involving both hands.
Neck swelling
The thyroid can sometimes become enlarged and form what is popularly known as ‘goitre’. This can be a subtle swelling or a massive growth which can even make breathing a problem. However, it is important to know that you can have a hyperactive thyroid even without it becoming enlarged.
Eye problems
The eyes begin to protrude out of the eye socket which makes them dry and easily irritated. They get red and inflammed. Some people also experience blurred vision and sensitivity to light.
High blood pressure
The blood pressure usually becomes elevated if the thyroid is over-active,. However, if problem is treated, the blood pressure returns to normal levels. (It is, therefore, vital for all people with high blood pressure to have their thyroid function checked).
Weight loss
When the thyroid is over-working, it increases your metabolism. You constantly feel hungry and may find yourself increasing your food portions. Despite an increase in appetite, you may find yourself losing weight.
Big breasts in men
This is a medical condition known as ‘gynecomastia’ and usually occurs in cases of hormonal imbalance such as those involving the thyroid.
Hair loss
A hyperactive thyroid can lead to thinning of hair on the scalp and other body parts. This hair loss does not follow a specific pattern.
Sleeping difficulties
Most people with an over-active thyroid find themselves with insomnia and other sleeping problems. Although these can be treated symptomatically with sleep medication, they usually resolve once the thryroid problem is treated.
Digestive issues
These usually range from an increase in stool motions with normal consistency to diarrhoea. These should not be treated with over-the-counter anti-diarrhoea drugs. Some people also report nausea and vomiting.
Menstrual irregularities
Women with hyperactive thyroids find themselves getting lighter and irregular periods. In some cases, the periods disappear for weeks on end.
Fatigue
Initially, people with hyperactive thryoids find themselves feeling unusually energetic. However, this gives way to persistent fatigue which is worsened by the inability to sleep properly.
The combination of poor sleeping habits, mood dysfunction and fatigue usually results in poor concentration and a drop in work performance.
Bone problems
Hyperactive thyroid is also associated with thinning of bones (osteoporosis). This usually results in bone pain and easy breakage (fractures). People with hyperactive thyroids may also find their skin thinning and some may find themselves itching all the time.
