What should you know about thyroiditis and hyperthyroidism?

Some forms of thyroiditis damage thyroid cells and release stored hormone into the bloodstream. This can create a temporary hyperthyroid phase, followed in some cases by a low-thyroid phase as hormone stores run down. Other causes of hyperthyroidism make the gland produce too much hormone continuously. The pattern and duration depend on the cause.

Possible symptoms include palpitations, feeling anxious, difficulty sleeping, excessive sweating, heat intolerance, night sweats or diarrhoea. A symptom page can explain each complaint, but none of these symptoms identifies the cause by itself.

Book an appointment for persistent or troublesome symptoms. Assessment may include a pulse check, neck examination and thyroid blood tests, with further tests when the cause is unclear. Tell the clinician about recent illness, neck pain, pregnancy or postpartum changes, and all medicines and supplements.

Treatment depends on whether the thyroid is releasing stored hormone or actively overproducing it. Follow the agreed plan, stay hydrated if bowel symptoms are present, and avoid changing medicine doses independently. Keep notes on palpitations, sleep, temperature sensitivity and bowel changes.

Get urgent help for chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, marked confusion, a very fast or irregular heartbeat, or sudden worsening with fever. Severe excess thyroid hormone can place heavy stress on the heart and nervous system.

Ask: Is this thyroiditis or ongoing hyperthyroidism? Which blood tests will clarify the phase? How long might symptoms last? Which medicines should I avoid, and what change in heartbeat or breathing needs urgent help?