Hyperthyroidism & Graves' disease
Also known as:
Overactive thyroid, thyrotoxicosis, Graves disease
Too much thyroid hormone speeds the body up. Effective options include medicine, radioactive iodine and surgery.
Written and reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD · Last reviewed
VIDEO LESSON
What it is
Hyperthyroidism means the thyroid makes too much hormone. The most common cause is Graves' disease, in which antibodies switch on the TSH receptor. Other causes are overactive nodules and thyroiditis, which is usually temporary.
Symptoms
• Racing heart or palpitations
• Tremor, anxiety and insomnia
• Heat intolerance and sweating
• Weight loss despite a good appetite
• Graves' eye disease: gritty, bulging or double vision
How it's diagnosed
A suppressed TSH with high free T4 or T3 confirms thyrotoxicosis. TSH receptor antibodies identify Graves' disease; an uptake scan helps when the cause is unclear.
Treatment
Beta-blockers ease symptoms quickly. Methimazole is the preferred antithyroid drug, with propylthiouracil used in early pregnancy. Radioactive iodine and thyroidectomy are definitive options. Untreated hyperthyroidism raises the risk of atrial fibrillation and bone loss.
Clinical pearls
• Smoking worsens Graves' eye disease; quitting is part of treatment.
• Report fever or sore throat on antithyroid drugs right away: it can signal low white cells.
• The 2026 ATA pregnancy guideline advises switching from methimazole to PTU before conception.
Key studies and references
Trusted resources
Educational content only, written and reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD. It does not replace individual medical advice. For sudden chest pain, trouble breathing or stroke symptoms, call 911.
AT A GLANCE
Category
Thyroid
Also known as
Overactive thyroid, thyrotoxicosis, Graves disease
Reviewed by
Farhan Tahir, MD
Questions about your own care?
Dr. Tahir’s team offers consults through Youthful Medicine.
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