Lack of sleep is a problem that many people experience due to hectic work schedules and family obligations but it can also be a symptom of something more serious. In some cases, it can be a sign of hyperthyroidism. A visit to a San Jose thyroid doctor can provide solutions for individuals with this condition.
The thyroid gland is attached to the windpipe just above the Adam's apple. When functioning normally it releases hormones that regulate heartbeat and metabolism in addition to proper development. In individuals with hyperthyroidism, it releases an excessive amount of hormones into the bloodstream.
Many people with hyperthyroidism are severely fatigued because the rush of hormones can cause insomnia. The hormones also cause tremors and diarrhea in addition to acting on the circulatory system to elevate heart rate and raise blood pressure. The additional stress on the system can make patients with this condition feel exhausted even though they are sleeping through the night.
A qualified physician can usually confirm a diagnosis of hyperthyroidism by checking the patient's blood for high levels of TSH, which stimulates this gland to produce more hormones. Hyperthyroidism can be hereditary, as is the case with individuals suffering with Graves' disease, an autoimmune condition that causes hyperactivity. Other causes may be inflammation or nodules growing on the gland.
Certain medications, including propylthiouracil and methimazole can inhibit the production of hormones but cause serious side effects in some patients. Other options include taking radioactive iodine orally and surgery to remove all or part of the gland. Some physicians prescribe beta-blockers, which have no effect on hormone levels but can offer relief for symptoms related to elevated heart rate.
Individuals who cannot seem to get enough sleep to overcome exhaustion may be suffering from more than just sleep deprivation. Only a licensed physician can determine if severe fatigue is caused by an overactive thyroid gland. The physician will confirm the diagnosis and select the best method to treat the condition depending on the patient's age, health, and the cause of the hyperactivity.
The thyroid gland is attached to the windpipe just above the Adam's apple. When functioning normally it releases hormones that regulate heartbeat and metabolism in addition to proper development. In individuals with hyperthyroidism, it releases an excessive amount of hormones into the bloodstream.
Many people with hyperthyroidism are severely fatigued because the rush of hormones can cause insomnia. The hormones also cause tremors and diarrhea in addition to acting on the circulatory system to elevate heart rate and raise blood pressure. The additional stress on the system can make patients with this condition feel exhausted even though they are sleeping through the night.
A qualified physician can usually confirm a diagnosis of hyperthyroidism by checking the patient's blood for high levels of TSH, which stimulates this gland to produce more hormones. Hyperthyroidism can be hereditary, as is the case with individuals suffering with Graves' disease, an autoimmune condition that causes hyperactivity. Other causes may be inflammation or nodules growing on the gland.
Certain medications, including propylthiouracil and methimazole can inhibit the production of hormones but cause serious side effects in some patients. Other options include taking radioactive iodine orally and surgery to remove all or part of the gland. Some physicians prescribe beta-blockers, which have no effect on hormone levels but can offer relief for symptoms related to elevated heart rate.
Individuals who cannot seem to get enough sleep to overcome exhaustion may be suffering from more than just sleep deprivation. Only a licensed physician can determine if severe fatigue is caused by an overactive thyroid gland. The physician will confirm the diagnosis and select the best method to treat the condition depending on the patient's age, health, and the cause of the hyperactivity.
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Find a review of the reasons why you should visit a functional medicine center and more information about an experienced San Jose thyroid doctor at http://www.ihschiropractic.com now.
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