Elevated Thyroid Levels

Hyperthyroidism is the term used to describe the condition wherein an overactive thyroid gland releases too much of thyroid hormones and gives rise to several health complications. Abnormal antibodies in the blood usually trigger abnormal growth of the thyroid gland and cause excessive secretion of the thyroid hormone. A blood test helps diagnose hyperthyroidism.

Certain genetic factors that influence the function of the thyroid gland may cause hyperthyroidism. Such disease tends to run in families, especially in women.

Advanced stage of hyperthyroidism may exhibit serious symptoms like breathing difficulty, weak muscles and excessive fatigue. Hyperthyroidism develops gradually and not suddenly. Early detection of the problem helps avoid worsening of the situation and promotes fast recovery.

Thyroid problems should not be left untreated as they eventually lead to serious health hazards. The thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) released by the pituitary gland stimulates the thyroid to release thyroid hormones. Pituitary gland problems can lead to hyperthyroidism.

The most common cause of elevated thyroid levels in children is Grave's disease. Abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland leads to the situation known as goiter.

In toxic nodular or multi-nodular goiter, one or more nodules (lumps) in the thyroid, gradually grow and their increased activity leads to the increased output of thyroid hormone in the blood.

Viral infection may cause gland to secrete more hormone and, lead to a temporary rise in thyroid hormone levels. Dysfunction of the immune system may lead to a situation known as thyroiditis. Too much of thyroid hormone intake through prescribed tablets can also cause thyroiditis. Therefore, it is necessary to know the symptoms of high thyroid levels.

Hyperthyroidism is much less common than hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland). Women are more likely to suffer from an overactive thyroid gland than men.

Anxiety, nervousness, rapid weight loss, diarrhea, high heart rate, high blood pressure, eye sensitivity/bulging and vision disturbances are some of the common symptoms of raised thyroid levels.

The symptoms of hyperactive thyroid gland can vary from person to person. The symptoms may vary according to the age, gender, genetic factors, overall health, lifestyle, weight, etc., of the patient. Here is a list of the symptoms.

• Low blood pressure
• Brittle nails
• Thinning of skin
• Periodic paralysis
• Nausea and irritability
• Insomnia or difficulty in falling and staying asleep

• Inflammation of the eyes, bulging eye or eyelid retraction
• Hand and/or finger tremors
• Reduced menstrual flow
• Major weight loss, accompanied by a paradoxical increase in appetite

• Hair-loss, fine brittle hair
• Heat intolerance and excessive thirst
• Eye pain
• Frequent bowel movement or diarrhea

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
• Depression
• Lack of concentration and memory loss
• Palpitation and shortness of breath
• Hyperactivity, children tend to be clumsy and drop things

• Excessive sweating and warm moist hands
• Height of the children may be greater than normal for their age
• Painless red lumps on the skin
• Osteoporosis

• Impaired fertility and loss of libido
• Swelling of the front side of the neck (goiter)
• Fatigue, muscular weakness, especially in upper arms and thighs

Elevated thyroid levels during pregnancy need to be treated promptly and carefully. If the symptoms are unnoticed or left untreated, then the risks of miscarriage or birth defects are much higher.

Untreated hyperthyroidism can lead to a number of heart diseases such as atrial fibrillation and heart failure. Besides this, weakened bones and eye problems, fever and delirium are just some of the complications that set in with high thyroid levels.

Hyperthyroidism treatment consists of a hyperactive thyroid diet and regular exercises. Your physician and dietitian may prescribe proper medication (as a part of hormone therapy) and may ask you to follow a balanced diet to control the overflow of thyroid hormone.

Symptoms of high thyroid levels are generally noticed in the people belonging to the age group of 20-40. Thyroid plays an important role in body metabolism and a hyperactive thyroid gland can have significant impact upon one's health. 

Those affected by hyperactive thyroid gland should include broccoli, kale, spinach, cauliflower, cabbage, mustard, soy, wintergreen, walnuts, turnips, etc. in their diet, as these food items can inhibit the effect of over flowing thyroid hormone in the body.

Peaches and pears are also recommended; as they help curb over functioning of the thyroid. Lots of green vegetables, protein rich foods, limited carbohydrates in the diet can help manage the situation. Regular and proper exercises can help maintain the necessary and sufficient flow of thyroid in the body.

Herbs like mother wort, turmeric and bugle-weed also help stabilize the hyperactive thyroid gland. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C and calcium is usually recommended by nutrition experts.

Just remember that a diet that is low in carbohydrates, fiber and iodine can alleviate many of the high thyroid levels symptoms. Limiting the consumption of nicotine, alcohol and caffeine (found in tea, coffee, colas and plain chocolate) help reduce the symptoms of overactive thyroid as they are all responsible for increasing the metabolic rate.

This post is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. If any of the aforementioned symptoms are noticed, you should immediately consult your physician for best treatment.