Health
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Thyrotoxicosis?

A. Pasbjerg
A. Pasbjerg

Thyrotoxicosis is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland emits excessive amounts of thyroid hormone, leading to elevated levels in the bloodstream. The syndrome is often related to hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland is overproducing hormones. It can also be caused by certain diseases or conditions that stimulate the thyroid to release extra stored hormones. The two hormones involved are free thyroxine and triiodothyronine.

One of the most common diseases that causes hyperthyroidism leading to thyrotoxicosis is Graves’ disease. This is an autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid to generate excessive amounts of hormones. It is characterized by enlargement of the thyroid, also referred to as goiter.

A radioactive form of iodine can be used to help treat thyrotoxicosis.
A radioactive form of iodine can be used to help treat thyrotoxicosis.

Another issue that can frequently cause thyrotoxicosis is thyroiditis, or inflammation of the thyroid. There are various causes of this, including infection and autoimmune diseases. Sometimes women experience postpartum thyroiditis, which leads to hyperthyroidism during the first year after giving birth, though it is usually only for a limited time.

Various other issues can also be the source of thyrotoxicosis. Benign tumors, or thyroid adenomas, and multinodular goiters can become toxic and cause excess hormones to be created. Drugs and radiation treatments can also be contributing factors.

Thyrotoxicosis occurs when the thyroid gland emits excessive amounts of thyroid hormone.
Thyrotoxicosis occurs when the thyroid gland emits excessive amounts of thyroid hormone.

Symptoms of thyrotoxicosis typically include sweating, tremors, and an increased heart rate. Patients may also experience anxiety and oversensitivity to heat. Some sufferers may feel hungrier than usual, but will also lose weight. In the case of Graves’ disease, additional symptoms can include goiter and bulging of the eyes.

The first step to diagnosis is usually a physical examination. If the patient’s symptoms and physical state indicate thyrotoxicosis, the doctor will likely order a blood test. Low levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone and high levels of thyroxine or triiodothyronine confirm the diagnosis.

Thyrotoxicosis is often caused by inflammation of the thyroid.
Thyrotoxicosis is often caused by inflammation of the thyroid.

There are several treatment options available. Medications that inhibit the thyroid’s hormone production, called thyrostatics, can be used. Beta blockers may also be used, though they only treat the symptoms of thyrotoxicosis, not the cause. Sometimes surgery is recommended to remove some or all of the thyroid. Radioactive iodine can also be used to kill the overproducing cells in the thyroid.

Located in the front of the neck, the thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate blood pressure, body temperature, heart rate, and the body's metabolism.
Located in the front of the neck, the thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate blood pressure, body temperature, heart rate, and the body's metabolism.

If left untreated, thyrotoxicosis can lead to thyroid storm, or thyrotoxic crisis. This is a very dangerous condition that occurs when hormone levels in the blood reach extremely high levels. Patients experience high blood pressure, accelerated heartbeat, and a high fever. Thyroid storm needs to be treated immediately, as it can lead to death.

Discussion Comments

zeak4hands

@w00dchuck41 - That sounds sinister. I guess breathing in smoke isn't very good for you. Go figure. I wonder how many of the 10 million people with thyroid disorders smoke? According to what you said, only one fifth of smokers get thyroid disorders. That isn't as bad as it could be.

Stress is a common cause for most diseases. It puts a strain on your body because it isn't supposed to be a long term thing. Most people just happen to lead very stressful lives that keep their stress levels high. That's why vacation time is so important.

As for stress causing thyrotoxicosis -- I'm not so sure. How can doctors and researchers tell when everyone is stressed? They would have to look pretty hard to find someone who wasn't worried or stressed about something. It's just our way of life.

w00dchuck41

@MedicineBall - The causes for thyrotoxicosis and other types of hyperthyroidism are so common -- it's no wonder that over 13 million people in America have thyroid disorders. Obviously something is wrong with our diet.

The top three causes -- other than plain old radiation -- are stress, smoking and medications.

When you think about it, practically everyone is on medication and is stressed. We even take medication for stress. The amount of smokers is somewhere around 50 million in the US. I'm surprised everyone doesn't have a thyroid disorder!

minthybear19

@MedicineBall - I heard about the diet soda thing too. As far as I know, the artificial sweetener aspartame is the one to avoid.

It blocks out some of the glucose from entering your brain, which can make you tired. It is also know to cause headaches and migraines on occasion. Really, you only need to worry about aspartame if you drink a lot of it -- in small quantities, it shouldn't cause a reaction.

The iodine they use to treat thyrotoxicosis is radioactive. I can guess that it's kills the cells before it causes a reaction, but I can't say for sure.

Good luck with your doctor's appointment, I hope all goes well!

MedicineBall

I heard that people who have thyrotoxicosis should avoid drinking diet sodas -- something about the artificial sweeteners causing reactions. Does anyone know anything about that and what in diet soda in particular?

I also read that eating high iodine foods like sea food can cause reactions. Why is iodine used to treat the overactive thyroid if it causes reactions? Wouldn't that be counter productive?

If anyone could help, that would be great. I've been worried that I'm developing thyrotoxicosis -- I have a doctor's appointment soon -- so the more I know the better. Hopefully, it's just a over reaction.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A radioactive form of iodine can be used to help treat thyrotoxicosis.
      By: ksena32
      A radioactive form of iodine can be used to help treat thyrotoxicosis.
    • Thyrotoxicosis occurs when the thyroid gland emits excessive amounts of thyroid hormone.
      By: lom123
      Thyrotoxicosis occurs when the thyroid gland emits excessive amounts of thyroid hormone.
    • Thyrotoxicosis is often caused by inflammation of the thyroid.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Thyrotoxicosis is often caused by inflammation of the thyroid.
    • Located in the front of the neck, the thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate blood pressure, body temperature, heart rate, and the body's metabolism.
      By: p6m5
      Located in the front of the neck, the thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate blood pressure, body temperature, heart rate, and the body's metabolism.
    • Children suffering from hyperthyroidism may experience muscular weakness and anxiety.
      By: ivolodina
      Children suffering from hyperthyroidism may experience muscular weakness and anxiety.
    • Problems with the thyroid gland may cause high blood pressure.
      By: WavebreakmediaMicro
      Problems with the thyroid gland may cause high blood pressure.