Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones, accelerating the body’s metabolism. Symptoms vary widely but commonly include:

• Nervousness, anxiety, irritability, and mood swings

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations, tachycardia, arrhythmias)

• Unintentional weight loss despite increased appetite

• Heat intolerance and excessive sweating

• Tremors, especially in the hands

• Fatigue, muscle weakness, and joint pain

• Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea

• Insomnia and difficulty sleeping

• Goiter (enlarged thyroid gland in the neck)

• Eye problems, particularly in Graves’ disease (bulging eyes, redness, dryness, double vision, light sensitivity)

• Skin changes: thinning skin, brittle nails, hair loss

• Menstrual changes: lighter or less frequent periods in premenopausal women

• Increased thirst and urination

• Panic attacks or feelings of impending doom

Symptoms may develop gradually or suddenly and can be mistaken for anxiety, stress, or other conditions. In older adults, symptoms may be atypical—such as fatigue, weight loss, or depression—rather than the classic signs.

Important note: Some symptoms of hyperthyroidism closely resemble those of anxiety disorders. If you experience persistent symptoms like rapid heartbeat, unexplained weight loss, or tremors, it's crucial to get your thyroid function tested (TSH, T3, T4 levels) to rule out hyperthyroidism.

Diagnosis is confirmed through blood tests showing low TSH and elevated T3/T4. Treatment options include antithyroid medications (e.g., methimazole), radioactive iodine therapy, beta-blockers, and in some cases, surgery. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent serious complications like thyroid storm, heart failure, or osteoporosis.