Thyroid problems can occur if an excess of thyroid hormones become uncontrolled. This could potentially lead to dangerous increases in heart rate and body temperature, together with other serious symptoms.
The thyroid is a key element of one’s body. It is a small gland, which is found on the front of the neck and produces its own hormone, directly impacting one’s metabolism. Apart from this, it impacts how fast the heartbeats and how quickly calories are burned. When the thyroid is not functioning as it should, things can get problematic.
The thyroid can be underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism). An overactive thyroid is more common and is found mostly in women rather than men. With the right medication, it can be controlled, however, if it is left untreated, it can lead to a medical emergency referred to as thyroid storm.
This occurs when the thyroid is so overactive that the level of hormone in the blood becomes toxic. This is a serious condition which would require immediate medical intervention. Thankfully, it is quite an uncommon ailment. Thyroid storm is not something one would develop instantly. One would already have an overactive thyroid for some time. Most people would identify that something is not right before the thyroid reaches that stage.
If one stops taking medication for an overactive thyroid, this could spell trouble. As long as one keeps on taking the necessary medication, he should be out of trouble.
In certain instances, there may be events where someone with uncontrolled thyroid hormone develops a thyroid storm. These could include a heart attack, trauma, surgery, an infection and even childbirth.
So what are the symptoms of thyroid storm?
There are several symptoms which may be associated with an overactive thyroid. These include a faster heartbeat, increased temperature, diarrhoea, confusion, agitation, restlessness, shaking, sweating and change in alertness.
hese symptoms may also be triggered by other factors, so obviously if you go through any of the above, it surely does not ascertain that you have thyroid issues.
The treatments for thyroid are quite easy to administer. When one has a thyroid storm, the objective of the treatment would be to stop the production of additional thyroid hormones and to manage those that are already active within the blood. It can normally be controlled within a span of a few days. Like most health issues, spotting abnormalities in the early stages can do a world of good.
