Does a GP consultation treat hyperthyroidism?

Your GP may ask about racing or irregular heartbeat, tremor, heat intolerance, sweating, weight change, anxiety, sleep and bowel habits. They can examine your pulse and neck and arrange blood tests that assess thyroid function. Further tests may help identify the cause. Depending on the results, treatment may involve medicine to reduce thyroid hormone production, medicine for troublesome symptoms, or referral to an endocrinology team. The right option depends on the cause, other health conditions and pregnancy plans.

Bring a list of medicines, vitamins and supplements, including products containing iodine or thyroid hormone. Tell the GP about heart symptoms, eye changes and any chance of pregnancy. Take treatment exactly as prescribed and attend requested blood tests, because doses may need adjustment as thyroid activity changes. Avoid changing a dose yourself, even if symptoms improve.

Get urgent medical help for a very fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, high fever with confusion or extreme agitation. New severe eye pain or rapidly worsening vision also needs prompt assessment. Call emergency services for collapse or severe breathing difficulty.

Ask which blood tests are planned, what may be causing the overactive thyroid, how treatment will be monitored, and which symptoms should trigger an urgent call.