Prevention of Hyperthyroidism

  • Hyperthyroidism
    Subclinical and overt hyperthyroidism is present in 1.6% and 1.3% of the Indian population according to one study. The equivalent number is 1% in an American population. Hyperthyroidism or thyrotoxicosis is an overactive thyroid where the thyroid gland produces too much of the thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism can accelerate your body's metabolism, causing unintentional weight loss and a rapid or irregular heartbeat.  
Submitted by Dr S. Patel on 16 July 2022
Stock pic of a writing pad with the heading Hyperthyroidism and stethoscope and pills on a wooden table top

There is no clear way to prevent hyperthyroidism but you can reduce your risk by doing the following:

  • Get your hormone levels checked all through pregnancy and 6 months after giving birth.
  • Control your diabetes.
  • Check your Vitamin B12 levels. People with pernicious anemia are at a higher risk.
  • Check your thyroid levels regularly if you have a family history or if you have had a thyroid problem or surgery in the past.

References:

NIH: National institute of Diabetes and Digestive Kidney diseases. www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information.

The Pharmaceutical Journal, PJ, September 2021, Vol 307, No 7953;307(7953)::DOI:10.1211/PJ.2021.1.104497

Community
Endocrine System
Condition
Hyperthyroidism
Changed
Sat, 07/16/2022 - 19:53

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