What are the most common symptoms of hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism means the thyroid is producing more thyroid hormone than the body needs. The increased metabolic activity can cause heat intolerance, excessive sweating, night sweats, a fast or forceful heartbeat, shakiness, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping. Some people notice diarrhoea, weight change, muscle weakness, or lighter and less predictable periods. Symptoms can develop gradually, and they can resemble stress, medication effects, or other health problems.

Make a GP appointment if several symptoms occur together, particularly palpitations with heat intolerance, sweating, or unexplained weight change. Bring a list of medicines, supplements, and recent symptoms. A clinician may examine your neck and pulse and arrange thyroid blood tests. Do not start or stop thyroid medicine without advice. Limit triggers that make palpitations or anxiety worse, such as excess caffeine, and drink enough fluid when sweating is heavy.

Seek urgent care for chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, a very fast or irregular heartbeat, marked confusion, or extreme agitation. A high fever with worsening weakness and a racing heart also needs prompt assessment. If palpitations are new, persistent, or associated with dizziness, arrange medical review even when you otherwise feel well.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest Hyperthyroidism, which thyroid tests are needed, whether medicines or supplements could be contributing, and how to monitor palpitations while waiting for results.