Main symptoms of hyperthyroidism

An overactive thyroid releases more thyroid hormone than the body needs, increasing the pace of several body processes. You may notice palpitations, tremor, irritability, difficulty sleeping, frequent bowel movements or diarrhoea, and reduced tolerance for warm rooms. Muscle weakness, tiredness, and changes in menstrual patterns can also occur. Some people develop sweating during the day or night, while others have few obvious symptoms. A blood test is usually needed to distinguish thyroid disease from other causes.

Book a medical appointment if these symptoms persist, cluster together, or interfere with sleep and daily activity. Note your heart rate sensations, bowel changes, sleep pattern, heat sensitivity, medicines, and any supplements. A clinician may examine your neck and check thyroid hormone levels. Do not start or stop thyroid medicine without instructions, because the correct dose depends on test results and your health.

Seek emergency care for severe or persistent palpitations with chest pain, fainting, major breathlessness, confusion, or extreme weakness. Urgent assessment is also appropriate if a very rapid heartbeat is accompanied by a high temperature or marked agitation. New symptoms during pregnancy or in someone with known thyroid disease should be discussed promptly with a clinician.

Ask which thyroid tests you need, whether another medicine could be contributing, how symptoms will be monitored, and what to do if palpitations or heat intolerance suddenly worsen.