Best Doctors for Hyperthyroidism Treatment in Kolkata

The best hyperthyroidism treatment depends on the cause, the patient's age, overall health, and personal preferences. The three main hyperthyroidism treatment options are:

• Antithyroid Medications: Like methimazole (Tapazole) or propylthiouracil (PTU) are prescribed to reduce the production of thyroid hormones. They help manage symptoms and are used as a first-line treatment, especially in younger individuals or during pregnancy.
• Radioactive Iodine (RAI) Therapy: Radioactive Iodine is taken orally and absorbed by the overactive thyroid gland. This helps to reduce its function gradually. It is a common treatment and often results in hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) in the long term, requiring thyroid hormone replacement.
• Thyroid Surgery (Thyroidectomy): A part or all of the thyroid gland is removed. It is reserved for cases such as large goitres or unsuitable treatments. Surgery can lead to hypothyroidism and may require lifelong thyroid hormone replacement.

The most common types of hyperthyroidism include:

• Graves' Disease: This is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system produces antibodies that stimulate the thyroid gland to produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormones.
• Toxic Nodular Goiter: There is a development of one or more thyroid nodules, which are areas of abnormal thyroid tissue that produce hormones independently, leading to excess thyroid hormone production.
• Subacute Thyroiditis: This is usually a temporary condition caused by viral or postviral inflammation of the thyroid gland. Initially, it can lead to hyperthyroidism, which may transition to hypothyroidism as the condition resolves.
• Excessive Iodine Intake: Excessive consumption of iodine, often from medications or dietary sources, can trigger hyperthyroidism.
• Secondary Hyperthyroidism: Results from the overstimulation of the thyroid gland by the pituitary gland or hypothalamus due to factors such as pituitary tumours or thyroid hormone resistance.

Hyperthyroidism symptoms and signs can vary in type and severity between individuals. Common signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:

• Increased Heart Rate: Rapid heartbeat, along with palpitations.
• Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss despite increased appetite.
• Tremors: Fine tremors, especially in the hands.
• Fatigue: Muscle weakness and fatigue.
• Menstrual Changes: Irregular menstrual periods in women.
• Thinning Hair: Hair may become delicate and brittle.
• Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.