If hyperthyroidism is left untreated

An overactive thyroid speeds up processes throughout the body. Ongoing symptoms may include weight loss, tremor, [Palpitations](/symptoms/palpitations/), [Difficulty Sleeping](/symptoms/difficulty-sleeping/), [Feeling Anxious](/symptoms/feeling-anxious/), [Excessive Sweating](/symptoms/excessive-sweating/), [Heat Intolerance](/symptoms/heat-intolerance/), or [Diarrhoea](/symptoms/diarrhoea/). Untreated disease can place extra strain on the heart and weaken muscles and bones.

The possible effects vary with the cause, hormone levels, age, pregnancy, and other health conditions. [Hyperthyroidism](/conditions/hyperthyroidism/) is treatable, but the right approach depends on the thyroid examination and blood results.

Arrange a medical appointment for thyroid blood tests and a review of symptoms, medicines, and relevant history. Treatment may involve medicine, radioactive iodine, or surgery, depending on the cause and your circumstances. Take prescribed treatment as directed and do not use iodine supplements or stop medicine without advice.

Track resting pulse, sleep, bowel changes, heat sensitivity, sweating, and weight changes to discuss at follow-up. Tell the clinician if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or taking heart medicines, as these details can change the plan.

Seek urgent help for a very fast or irregular heartbeat with chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, confusion, high fever, or extreme agitation. Sudden severe worsening in someone with untreated hyperthyroidism can be dangerous. Contact a clinician promptly for escalating palpitations, dehydration from diarrhoea, or inability to sleep because of symptoms.

Ask: What is causing my overactive thyroid? How do my thyroid blood tests guide treatment? How should I monitor my pulse and symptoms? Do I need heart, eye, or bone assessment? Which medicines, supplements, or pregnancy plans affect my options?