The thyroid is a large endocrine gland in the neck, located above the collarbone and below the thyroid cartilage, or Adam's apple. This butterfly-shaped organ is involved in controlling how the body uses energy, creates proteins and affects the body's rate of growth. A high thyroid count or level, known as hyperthyroidism, can produce a variety of symptoms.
Overactive Metabolism
Hyperthyroidism can cause speeding up of various bodily systems.
Causes of Hyperthyroidism
The most common causes of overactive thyroid in humans are: Graves' disease, toxic thyroid adenoma and toxic multinodular goiter.
Circulatory System
An excess of thyroid hormone can result in symptoms that resemble those of an epinephrine or adrenaline overdose, including rapid heartbeat, increased pulse rate and heart palpitations.
Nervous System
An over-stimulated metabolism caused by hyperthyroidism can result in nervous system tremors, hyperactivity and an overall feeling of extreme anxiety in the absence of external stressors.
Digestive System
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and sudden weight loss may accompany a high thyroid count.
Other Symptoms
Shortness of breath, fatigue, heat intolerance, excessive sweating, protruding eyes, male breast development, loss of menstrual periods in women, loss of libido, hair loss and muscle weakness can all be symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Tags: high thyroid count