Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormone, thereby accelerating the body’s metabolism. This imbalance can affect multiple systems, resulting in symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, weight loss, nervousness, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping.
While hyperthyroidism can develop for different reasons, the most common cause is an autoimmune condition known as Graves’ disease. Because thyroid hormones play such a critical role in regulating energy and overall function, timely diagnosis and treatment are essential.
At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, hyperthyroidism treatment is guided by Kimberley Shine, MD, who takes a patient-centered and integrative approach. Rather than simply addressing symptoms, Dr. Shine focuses on identifying the underlying causes of thyroid dysfunction to help patients restore balance, enhance their quality of life, and protect their long-term health.
Causes and Risk Factors
Hyperthyroidism can be triggered by several factors, including:
- Graves’ Disease: An autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid to overproduce hormones.
- Thyroid Nodules: Overactive lumps on the thyroid gland that increase hormone production.
- Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid that can temporarily raise hormone levels.
- Excess Iodine Intake: Consuming too much iodine through diet or medication.
- Family History: Genetics can play a role in thyroid dysfunction.
Understanding the cause of hyperthyroidism is essential for developing an effective treatment plan.
Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism
Because thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, hyperthyroidism can affect many aspects of health. Common symptoms include:
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Unexplained weight loss
- Anxiety, irritability, or restlessness
- Tremors in the hands or fingers
- Heat intolerance and excessive sweating
- Sleep difficulties
- Fatigue or muscle weakness
- Changes in menstrual cycles
- Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
- Thinning hair or fragile skin
Since these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, professional evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
How Hyperthyroidism Is Diagnosed
At Shine Health and Wellness, diagnosis begins with a thorough evaluation, which may include:
- Medical History and Exam: Reviewing symptoms and assessing overall health.
- Blood Tests: Measuring thyroid hormone (T3 and T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels.
- Antibody Tests: Identifying autoimmune markers linked to Graves’ disease.
- Imaging Studies: Ultrasound or radioactive iodine uptake scans to assess thyroid function.
This comprehensive approach ensures that treatment is customized to each patient’s condition and needs.
Treatment Options for Hyperthyroidism
Treatment for hyperthyroidism varies depending on severity, underlying cause, and overall health. At Shine Health and Wellness, care plans may include:
- Medication Management: Prescribing antithyroid drugs to reduce hormone production or beta-blockers to control symptoms like rapid heartbeat.
- Nutritional Counseling: Guidance on iodine intake and diet to support thyroid balance.
- Lifestyle Support: Stress management, sleep optimization, and exercise plans tailored to each patient.
- Functional Medicine Approaches: Addressing gut health, inflammation, and hormone interactions that may influence thyroid function.
- Specialist Referrals: When necessary, coordination with endocrinologists or surgeons for advanced care.
By combining conventional treatments with integrative strategies, Shine Health and Wellness ensures comprehensive and effective care.
Preventing Long-Term Complications
If left untreated, hyperthyroidism can lead to complications such as heart problems, osteoporosis, or thyroid storm, a rare but life-threatening condition. Early diagnosis and proactive treatment can help reduce risks and enable patients to maintain stable health. At Shine Health and Wellness, the focus is on long-term management, empowering patients to stay informed, engaged, and supported throughout their care.
Why Choose Shine Health and Wellness?
Kimberley Shine, MD, brings more than a decade of medical experience and a foundation in integrative and functional medicine. She understands that the doctor-patient relationship is the cornerstone of effective care, taking time to listen, answer questions, and involve patients in decision-making.
Patients at Shine Health and Wellness also benefit from a team that includes experienced nurses, a lifestyle coach, and a licensed acupuncturist. This collaborative environment offers a wide range of resources under one roof.
Seek Help for Hyperthyroidism Today
Are you experiencing symptoms of hyperthyroidism, or have you been diagnosed with an overactive thyroid? Professional care at Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, can make all the difference. Call 626-317-0207 today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Kimberley Shine and her team.