A&P II Concept map - Disease Map Hyperthyroidism PDF

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Disease Map Hyperthyroidism...

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HYPERTHYROIDISM

The term hyperthyroidism refers to any condition in which there is too much thyroid hormone produced in the body. In other words, the thyroid gland is overactive. Another term that you might hear for this problem is thyrotoxicosis, which refers to high thyroid hormone levels in the bloodstream. As for the history of the disease, the first description of thyroid disease as they are known today was that of Graves’ disease by Caleb Parry in 1786, but the pathogenesis of thyroid disease was not discovered until 1882- 86 (Britannica, 2019). The most common cause of hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of thyroid hormone by the entire thyroid gland. This condition is also known as Graves’ disease. This disease is caused by antibodies in the blood that turn on the thyroid and cause it to grow and secrete too much thyroid hormone. This type of hyperthyroidism tends to run in families and it occurs more often in young women. The second most common cause of hyperthyroidism is characterized by one or more nodules or lumps in the thyroid that may gradually grow and increase their activity so that the total output of thyroid hormone into the blood is greater than normal. This condition is known as toxic nodular or multinodular goiter. Also, people may temporary have symptoms of hyperthyroidism if they have a condition called thyroiditis. This condition is caused by a problem with the immune system or a viral infection that causes the gland to leak stored thyroid hormone (Mayo Clinic, 2018). According to the American Thyroid Association, signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism include unintentional weight loss, even when the appetite and food intake stay the same or increased. Rapid heartbeat also called tachycardia, Irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia and palpitations are frequent visible symptoms of having hyperthyroidism. Tremors, usually a fine trembling in the hands and fingers and also sweating are also associated with the disease. Changes in menstrual patterns also occur in women and increased sensitivity to heat are noted. Changes in bowel patterns, especially more frequent bowel movement and an enlarged thyroid gland (goiter), which may appear as a swelling at the base of the neck. Also, fatigue associated with muscle

weakness and difficulty in sleeping are some notable examples of the signs and symptoms of the disease. Hyperthyroidism can be diagnosed using simple physical examination and also checking the patient’s medical history. The most common test used is using blood test, measuring the thyroxin and thyroid stimulating hormone can confirm the diagnosis. If the blood test indicates hyperthyroidism, the physician may recommend some test to help determine if the thyroid is overactive. Some of these tests include Radio iodine uptake test, this measure if the thyroid gland is producing too much thyroxine or the thyroid gland is leaking thyroxine in the bloodstream (Mayo Clinic, 2018). Some of the tests also include thyroid scan and thyroid ultrasound. There are several treatments and procedures available for treating hyperthyroidism. The best approach depends on the age, physical condition, underlying cause of hyperthyroidism, personal preference and the severity of the disorder. These treatments include Radio active iodine which is usually taken by mouth and is absorbed by the thyroid gland. Anti-thyroid medications like ethimazole (Trapazole) and propylithiouracil to prevent the thyroid gland in producing excess amount of thyroid hormone and beta blockers to reduce the symptoms of tremors, rapid heart rate and palpitations (Mayo Clinic, 2018). Thyroidectomy is also an option, where most of the thyroid gland is removed. Prognosis of a patient with hyperthyroidism is that with gradual medications, treatments and surgery the disease can be suppressed and controlled. Maintaining a healthy diet with restriction from iodine rich foods and regular maintenance of medicine combined with regular exercise can not only control the disease but also cure it as well.

REFERENCES

American Thyroid Association (n.d.) Hyperthyroidism. Retrieved from https://www.thyroid.org/hyperthyroidism/ Encyclopedia Britannica (2019, June 14). Hyperthyroidism. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/science/hyperthyroidism Mayo Clinic (2018, November 3). Hyperthyroidism. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hyperthyroidism/symptoms-causes/syc20373659...