Signs and Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism accelerates your body’s metabolism. It is difficult to diagnose as the signs and symptoms are similar to other conditions.

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Compare hypothyroid and hyperthyroid signs and symptoms.

Physical

General

• Increased sweating
• Sensation of warmth
• Oversensitivity to heat
• Warm, moist palms
• Palpitations
• Increased appetite
• Diarrhoea
• Weight Loss
• Dry; thin skin that flushes easily
• Hair loss
• Goitre (enlargement of the thyroid gland)
• Shakiness/trembling
• Shortness of breath
• Overactivity
• Tiredness/exhaustion
• Increased sex drive
• Enlargement of breasts in men
• Pretibial myxedema (red swollen skin on shins and feet)

Menstrual Disorders

• Cessation of periods (amenorrhoea)
• Longer or shorter cycle
• Infertility

Muscles

• Weak, less defined muscles (wasting)
• Loss of muscle strength
• Aches and pains

Visual Disturbances

• Staring eyes
• Conjunctivitis
• Corneal ulceration
• Dry/gritty eyes
• Painful eyes
• Double vision

Non-Physical

• Mood changes
• Nervousness
• Anxiety
• Excitability
• Insomnia
• Racing thoughts
• Talkativeness

For more information about hyperthyroidism click here

Date updated: 17.06.21 (V1.3)
Review date: 13.06.22